I Need More Legroom on this - Mini Baja Bug - Part 10

In this video we are building a Mini Baja Bug using a Polaris XLT 600 two stroke snowmobile engine and a go kart fiberglass body of a VW bug.
ArcDroid CNC Plasma Cutter Affiliate Link:
bit.ly/3B6G7Px
ratherBwelding merchandise
bit.ly/2PF21Vf
Follow me on Instagram www.instagram....
help support me on Patreon - / ratherbwelding
#fabrication #bajabug
Music by Epidemic Sound (www.epidemicsou...)

[@nao_tomori]

100% recommend adding a endoscope to your toolbox. being able to run a tiny camera down into your engine can save so much time on diag work

[@derenius]

Come on man, rebuild the engine completely. You will never have the engine more tore down than right now, this is the time to do it. You will regret it later if you don't do it now. This build deserves it, it's amazing!

[@Urmomsboyfriend01]

*build

[@ryanp259]

@@Urmomsboyfriend01regret*

[@jasonbirch1182]

The crank has to be completely disassembled to put new bearings in it. Its very specialized work. Its 3 pins and 6 plates most likely. Truing the crank is a job.

[@derenius]

@@jasonbirch1182 I did not know this. Explains a lot.

[@jasonbirch1182]

@@derenius yeah it's all roller bearings. Rods are needle bearings. No bearing caps on the rods. It's all pressed together. All 6 crank cheeks have to be trued up perfectly after it's all pressed apart and back together perfectly (ish). It's like 3 dirt bike cranks all in one.

[@xpndblhero5170]

I was expecting a frame stretch for how cramped it's getting.... I feel like you could have short pieces of metal filling the body gaps or do a fiberglass patch. Personally, I would push the back bar further back and the back part of the roof so it had more helmet room.... Can't wait to see what this thing can do because it reminds me of the Grind Hard Plumbing adult power wheels. 😁👍❤

[@eriklarson9137]

Sweet copy paste from your alt account.

[@ZeteticAF]

I’ve been watching you for years. Love your content. Most of all I appreciate that your willing to go cut old work off and do it right. Thanks man

[@vicferrari9380]

Your broken piston reminds me of a pontiac I had. It droped a valve head and did the expected damage. But, I couldn't find the missing valve head. I finally found it in the water jacket after breaking the block open with a sledgehammer. Ohh the good old days of youth.🎉

[@brianellison3525]

12:30 the word you're looking for was "scootched" , past tense of scoot. Lookin good, man , as usual. Have fun

[@timmy3582]

I died at “skeeted” 😂😂😂

[@playinwithfirecustoms7954]

Skeeted.. 😂😂😂

[@mattryan9376]

nope, it’s “SKEETED” 😂😂😂

[@APmetalart]

Those piston pieces usually Crack the bottom of the case🤞

[@jacobherriotts1769]

You ‘skat’ the seat back G. Love your channel

[@Bob0sModelFabWorx]

I want to be there when the "end of the world" comes. Just to see your reaction to it. lol Very nice craftsmanship too.

[@chrisjames3142]

Highly recommend just cutting the center section out of the fiber body, stretch the frame and replace the top of the bug with metal. It should look fine, hell even paint it the same color 😂🙏🙏🙏🙏💯💯💯

[@TheSonofruss]

One of the things that will help you with your builds is steelit weldable paint to stop surface rust

[@acurarl9929]

Looks amazingly more comfortable. Super nice job

[@davessparetime83]

Make sure you look on the belly of the crankcase. That is where the broken piston skirt is likely to break through.

[@joemason8970]

100% good call moving the steering wheel down. Getting in and out would be even worse if it was up so high.

[@jasonbickford4283]

Those big chuncks might be just laying in the bottom of the crank! If your piston loses pieces and you don't see shavings anywhere yet, it's not over because what goes in will eventually come out. From snowmobile experience the smart move would be to split the case just to be sure. You might be one of the very very VERY few lucky ones!

[@johnnykjaersgaard7978]

You will be glad you took the decision regarding the legroom 🙂

[@ogreCyques]

I love the perfectionism when you're trying for zero bump steer on a wheelie machine

[@jasonbirch1182]

You can eliminate the bump steer by shortening the tie rods slightly and moving the pickup point on the spindle. Getting the height and fore aft position on the inner is crtical too.

[@martintheis7984]

Cut the bar above the rear "window" out so you can scoot back and have more leg room. You can always make an exhaust, if its in the way 😉

[@johnanderson1818]

In NASCAR terms! If the tie rods where mounted in front of the axle or a-arm's. It is called, front steer! Or rear steer, if placed in the back! Anyways, I knew that you would figure it out! This is one of my favorite builds! Awesome! 💯👍

[@bscar6255]

I’m in the British Virgin Islands, would love to have a go cart and if you can come here to make it the video would have the most beautiful background in the world!

[@nathandowns369]

Tie rods in front is actually better for off road because it puts the tie rods under tension landing off jumps not under pressure. Thats why all trophy trucks tie rods are up front. My teacher taught me by showing me with a straw. He said try to pull the straw apart with both hands. Then try with the same straw and push together. 100 times stronger under tension

[@JAGacp45]

Just make it into a really bad ass RC car

[@Wheelieking619]

Okay my ninja! You bad! I wanna suggest a thing…. Make it look like a safari rack or luggage rack-you know-some bugs used to rock em ,probably still do. This will be your completed roll cage so you can drive it like you wanna drive it. Roll cage luggage rack. Yep

[@allendyke4210]

add a Steering damper from a 60s VW beetle. We used to add them to Quads for riding rough trails and MX track, works great.

[@jasonwishart6800]

before you go any further, suggest you add 2 inches to the wheelbase by cutting the front off at the a pillar and 2 inches to the height of the body by cutting the a pillar and and the main hoop. It will give you more wheel travel and stability. Also, a steering wheel that does not have sharp corners and turns in the same plane as the shaft would be good.

[@AkPacerPilot]

Awesome, looking good, think you’re going to be glad you went with more room and the detachable steering wheel. :-)

[@curtistucker8059]

Lower end is definitely gonna blow.😂

[@mikemchaney1003]

Have you thought about ditching the steering wheel altogether and doing a handle bar set up? That could afford you the room you are looking for without having to go through the windshield area. Also cutting the bug body down the middle through the door and stretching it 2-3 inches would help a ton and fiberglass is really easy to splice back together. Those 2 or 3 inches would help you tremendously.

[@pthrelkeld090]

Skeeted was for sure not the word! 😂😂😂

[@some_random_garage]

Buble front window. Make a mould with frame the size of the window bolt in some perspex and blow a bubble front window. This is a classic thing if the vw era. Ian rusele shows how he does them

[@arnicus208]

Telling you , build a trellis frame to raise the body, giving you more body height (legroom) and getting your head inside the cab. Think something like how monster truck frames are. Good luck and cheers.

[@MrGeorge426f]

Have you thought about looking at competition RC cars for design ideas? Tons of tuning options built into them. I’d say a lot of things are very similar to what you’re building but fully adjustable. You wouldn’t have to remake much after the initial build, you could adjust things to get the desired changes after your first test runs.

[@billadams8681]

Not sure if someone has had the idea already or not, but if you can fiberglass you could make a Baja looking roof scoop over the back window. Would give you a roll bar for your head and allow you to move the seat back a little more after you cut the rear roof out. It would kinda fit the theme.

[@xxtrengt8871]

I'm really really liking this build, making a compact yet still drivable project is tough ! I just hope that the open diff will not make you stuck on sand and mud 😅 So excited to see the next video, thank you Chris for sharing all this work with us. PS: a bearing carrier for the lower pivot of the steering column might be overkill, but i really liked the way you used the Teflon bushings with the plate steel 👍

[@caseybinion806]

Looking awesome can’t wait for the next video 😊

[@GoldenSim27]

Leaf spring front suspension , its low ,simple and light , would free up ALL the nose room

[@1one3_Racing]

Bump steer is because your arms and tie rods are a different length. Need to be similar length and ideally the same pivot points. However on a vehicle that's predominantly on dirt, bump steer isn't a huge deal. Most of the early Baja vehicles had terrible bump steer and they went way faster than any go kart!

[@cameronf1460]

I've been in love with the rear wheels and tire tread pattern since first sight

[@flakksbuyselltrade]

Can’t wait too see this thing ripping

[@CowboyzCustoms]

Those XLT/XCR mono block motors have issues with crank bearings, especially clutch side, if you're going to put new piston and rings it'd be dumb not to replace all the crank bearings and rod bearings. Make sure the oil pump is good too, those will randomly give up too, probably even wouldn't be a bad idea to delete the oil pump and run mixed gas, just one less item you got to worry about failing.

[@CutthroatBill]

To get more legroom, I would consider moving the bar, cross bracing and firewall that's behind the seat, backwards a bit so that you can get the seat further back. You'd have to cut that part of the body off completely so it doesn't cut into the back of your neck. You could relocate that cutoff further back, and have it mounted on top of the bar behind you. There would be a small gap on each side of that cutoff and the rest of the body, but that wouldn't really be noticeable. I was also wondering if it would be safer to move the body further up, along with the bars on the left and right off you. Your head would be slightly better protected, and it be easier to tuck in if you rolled it. I don't wanna backseat drive, I just wanted to air some potential options. Without being there, it's hard to tell if this would even be feasible. Regardless, keep up the good work! I really enjoy watching you make all these cool vehicles!

[@johnhiggs325]

I still think stretching the body and frame would be the best course of action

[@jessiepearson4330]

Shove that front end forward 2-4”, it’s doable and would look and perform great

[@slurpee27]

Always enjoy the videos

[@joshwillingham1300]

Should make a pan just like the Volkswagen. It drops the floor 4 to 5 inches. I’ve done some projects just like what you’re building. It works really good.

[@GaisaSanktejo]

I know you've done everything you can to minimize altering that baja shell Chris, but this may need some tweaks if comfort and space is in short supply... I saw one person suggested extending the main cab section of the body to allow for more room and that is an option, but another possible option is to cut off and extend the nose of the shell a couple of inches to give you the room you need, then like with the graveninja, fill in the spaces While the primary purpose of this would be to grant more legroom, it could also allow you to have your steering wheel in a lower position without its sticking out of the windscreen... Options aside, it seems you've found a solution that works for you 😄

[@stephendobson8905]

That chunk from the piston most likely went out the exhaust. The bearings may still be fine but definitely check for up and down play on the rods. Id also inspect the crank seals as they can fail and cause the engine to suck in air and not start or run lean. Flush the bottom end numerous times with diesel and then add throw some premix down there to lube things up for first start up. I like to also do a heavier premix for the first gallon on a fresh rebuild even if you're still using the OEM oil pump.

[@WildXNatur]

Add a little weld and grind it down to tighten up the quick release steering wheel.

[@brandonbellacima66]

I would be splitting the cases and pulling that crank out for peace of mind. There are to many unknowns with that piston skirt being missing. You are already that far I would do it alll right the first time.

[@CobaltOntarioadventures]

Exactly.. outside bearings are easy and I would do seals regardless.

[@derekpirie9188]

Chris. Have you thought about using Tank Steer, steering arms on the sides. This will clear in front of you.

[@Razorbackjeep]

You cold also make a aluminum scoop to hold led pods for the front of the hood. This way you would have enough room to stretch out to the pedals instead of hitting your knees. Just a thought watching you struggle with leg room.

[@keevitajamees]

looking real nice!

[@sgermain06]

You should 100% take this thing apart and make sure there's not a piece in there. Once you start it and this thing goes flying around, the most plausible destination for that thing is THROUGH the block and your engine will be dead. Take the time to make sure it's clear, well worth the time and effort.

[@ianmiddlemiss819]

Think a lot more leg room would be achieved if the rear pivots of the upper and lower an arms where mounted to the A pillar and the front pivots as close to centre line of frame. Looking forward to seeing the wheel stands 🤟

[@mbuchithiani9474]

Nice build .... you should build an ariel atom next !!!!

[@davestevens4263]

I'm really liking this build , it's always fun watching other fabricators . I learn stuff & realize a lot of the hacks I taught myself, others do it the same way . Yes , good call on making it better . If your not happy now you won't be later .,

[@heathstrickland5418]

You could always chop the body and frame in half and lengthen the cabin area (frame and body) about 6 inches... that should remedy your leg room problem.

[@erickvond6825]

Just to point something out with the steering being the way it is now, you could get some monster drift action out of it. In that instance twitchy is exactly what you want.

[@dvsdev2403]

Chuck on one of those small motorcycle steering dampeners man, just in case you get a wheel stuck in a rut and it snaps that steering wheel up, might save your wrists and reduce any speed wobble

[@MIKEH.777]

I think you should cut and stretch the body right behind the dash and then you could cut the body and add fiberglass to the sides and the 2 sides of the roof. I know you can do it and you would be able to fit in the car better and it would look better. Keep up the great work and God Bless you and your family brother. 😊👍💯🇺🇸🙏🏼

[@nutspinner1068]

Greatings fron Germany, I like youre style of building things. But, to see you sit in this Bug, makes me think on a Deathtrap. I wish you all the Best, please be careful!!!

[@sudhirnaik4751]

Steering in the window space is a good solution I think.

[@ratmanbrian]

One way to get more cabin space might be to raise the body (and upper frame parts) by, say, 4 inches.

[@jperalta0000]

You should really add a roll over hoop, like the Shelby Cobra. Just in case you having a little too much fun off road.

[@uowebfoot]

maybe a domed type windshield? Or a "sun shield" at the top of the windshield to hide steering wheel. Lot's of vans built in the 70's had them.

[@scottnelson6671]

Good chassis given the Baja bug confines. It was two small to start with. You don’t want your feet ahead of the front axle

[@maryboisvert932]

Still love your videos keep them commig

[@sizifuss4751]

It may be a bit late for this suggestion, but have you thought about lifting the entire plastic shell and frame up? Gives you more room under the shell for legs and steering, have your head protected with the crash bar...

[@ericunderwing]

Just do hand controls. 2 brake levers one for go one for stop. Nice and simple

[@CutthroatBill]

That would be a tight fit with the brake setup he's wanting to do, which is being able to control the left and right rear brakes independently to better control wheelies. I assume he's making regular brakes ass well that act on all 4 wheels.

[@larryegilman1]

That missing piece of skirt had to go into the crank case, not damage the case, but break into small enough pieces to go up the transfer ports, be combusted and then make it out the exhaust port…I’d pull it apart now, and know for sure the case is clean and damage free. If you are that lucky, buy a handful of lottery tickets

[@jimbarton9896]

I think you had better have a closer look at that carb......it looks like the missing piece from the piston skirt is has embedded itself into the carb slide.......love the build, looking forward to seeing it complete and running

[@whosaidthat5236]

This is going to be sweet! I still think you should just lengthen the whole thing. You could cut the body at the door line and add something in there to fill the gap. Some plastic you could mill and slide in.

[@johnhiggs325]

My thoughts, too. I’d go with fiberglass, though.

[@davidowen888]

Keep on fabbin ☮️

[@president2]

Love it so much keep it up as always 💘

[@EngineeredToDesign]

Well worth the extra effort to completely redo the steering. Room is something you need I completely overlooked it in my power wheels build and don’t like driving the thing at all. Some bump steer is better than feeling claustrophobic.. 😊

[@Crazyhorseracing461]

Get the splined quick release, that’s what I use on my drag car👍👍👍

[@lordfudgepuppet]

To fit this mini bug built. Put an vw engine in the bug.. A bug engine would be awesome.

[@tbnrstephens3348]

Cool builds

[@keevitajamees]

always love how your videos are built.

[@richestheiser5599]

If you put your inner tie rods over and under, instead of side-by-side, it be pivoting off the Centerpoint, which decrease Bob steer

[@186scott]

With the steering sensitivity you could make it Adjustable depending on what you will be doing and how quickly you need to turn

[@dylandaviesdiptych]

Love the progress... :) Btw the word you were lookin for was 'scooched'

[@ObeyHats4035]

Every time I hear those dogs barking in the background, I think of the Christmas story and Bumpus' dogs barking. I'm almost half expecting them to run through Chris's shed.

[@jamesfahey2810]

Best part of that movie is when they steal the turkey

[@bryduhbikeguy]

I always laugh at them falling off the porch after the steps were gone...right into the mud.@@jamesfahey2810

[@3dartstudio007]

Put the pedals where you can best drive, then design stuff around it. Driver ergonomics super important!!!

[@isaneterrier6678]

Hy Chris, welldone, great job. I am hurry to see the next. Kris

[@suzukiman650]

Depending on the year the PTO side bearings have a tendency to burn up due to lack of oil. Later engines hade a 4th oil line tied in to that bearing to alleviate the issue. With work the later oil pump and line can be retrofitted to the earlier engines, if I am not mistaken.

[@bubbarodge]

Ever thought about raising the body up higher kinda like a body lift. The make some rock sliders to cover the sides to fill the gap.

[@Cliffprogarage]

Been watching since the beginning. Definitely liking the longer video. Just as you said, that little bit of bump steer is perfectly fine for an off-road vehicle. Only have to worry about it when the front wheels are on the ground. Lol

[@StandForFreedom1776]

Stretch the body by 1 foot. The VW body is fiberglass and easy to make patch panels for.

[@OGJD1984]

Lower the seat by bending the bars under it. Give up an inch or a little more of ground clearance. Sometimes really tall people buy seat lowering brackets for cars and it helps a lot.

[@mustangtoo]

Nice job on everything! Could you fan up one of those Rolls-Royce grills like we’ve all seen on some Vee-Dubs? Great place to put your feet! Lol! Anyway, keep up the good work. You’ll figure it out! 👍

[@chuckjohnson1331]

I have been watching your channel for along time and i have never built anything close to what u build but in my opinion, it would e alot of work , but it think stretching both the frame and the body would be the best solution. I really wish u would do that. Great build buddy

[@BraxxJuventa]

Well done Chris. 😁👍🏼

[@alfworks]

It looks from video you could move the steering bearing at the bottom even 4 inches forward, which would give you a better angle on the steering column (you don't need to twist the handles that much).... it should get you even more leg room, and should also decrease the bump steer (even though I wouldn't worry about it that much). Good job as always 👍👍

[@GhostedEgo]

I skeeted the seat back 😂 👇

[@esqueue]

🤣🤣🤣 12:28

[@dougnelson8121]

Guarantee that it in the crank case. Once you’re out beating around in this thing it’s going to break it loose and wreck it.

[@christopherallen9615]

"Skeeted" 😂😂 I don't know about the seat, but im going to skeet when you test drive this beast.

[@BigPaul1985]

Hello Put the gas on the handlebars so you have the brakes on the floor so you have more control on the mini buggy

[@TD1mkiddwest94]

Cut a hood into the body and make a hood scoop towards the front