Vaterra Ascender K5 Blazer Build – Part 8 – Attaching Suspension Links and Axles
The Build – Part 8 Now that we’ve put the links on the axles, we need to attach the axles to the chassis. This appeared like it might be a little crazy with all the links and shocks spidering all over, but actually wasn’t that big of a deal once I found the ‘process’. So, on we go to Part 8; attaching the links to the chassis.
Build Notes: None. This step is pretty simple to follow.
Vaterra 1986 Chevrolet K5 Blazer Ascender Build Step 122 We’ll start this step by attaching the front axle/links assembly to the chassis. First, assemble the slider at the front of the transmission to the slider on the front axle.Vaterra 1986 Chevrolet K5 Blazer Ascender Build Step 123 Attach both shocks to the tower. You’ll want to apply a dab of threadlocker since the screws go into the aluminum support tube. Make sure the slider shaft stays connected.Vaterra 1986 Chevrolet K5 Blazer Ascender Build Step 124 Now that we’ve attached the shocks, the axle/links assembly should stay connected to the chassis without us having to manipulate it to stay. The next step is to attach the small, front axle link to the floating battery tray. Sorry for the slighly blurry pic.Vaterra 1986 Chevrolet K5 Blazer Ascender Build Step 125 Now attach the single, upper front link to the chassis as shown with the red arrow. You will be capturing the screw with a black locknut.Do not overtighten.Vaterra 1986 Chevrolet K5 Blazer Ascender Build Step 126 Slide the two lower, front links into position and feed the long, chrome retainer pin into place through the holes in the center transmission plate. Secure the pin with the setscrew.Vaterra 1986 Chevrolet K5 Blazer Ascender Build Step 127 Swivel the servo horn and press a black locknut in the back of it. Now attach the steering link to the servo horn as shown with the red arrow.Vaterra 1986 Chevrolet K5 Blazer Ascender Build Step 128 Finally, connect the panhard rod to the panhard rod mount. Do not overtighten. Your front suspension has been installed.Vaterra 1986 Chevrolet K5 Blazer Ascender Build Step 129 Attaching the rear axle/links assembly is very similar to the front. Start by sliding the rear center driveshaft together.Vaterra 1986 Chevrolet K5 Blazer Ascender Build Step 130 Attach both shocks to the towers. Again, don’t forget a dab of threadlocker to keep the screws from backing out.Vaterra 1986 Chevrolet K5 Blazer Ascender Build Step 131 Attach the two upper suspension links to the chassis as shown. Secure with the black locknut.Vaterra 1986 Chevrolet K5 Blazer Ascender Build Step 132 Finally, slide the two lower suspension links into place. Slide the chrome retaining pin into place to capture the rod ends. Use the M3x5mm setscrew to hold the retaining pin.
There you have it! Front and rear axle/links in place. Pretty easy install with very little hassle!
Tony Phalen - As an avid RC enthusiast, Tony has been building, bashing and racing RC Cars for over 30 years. He has participated in every kind of surface racing events - 1/18 scale trucks, 1/10 scale TC, Rock Racers, Rally - if it had wheels, he's raced it! He's also worked on both sides of the industry fence; collaborating with many major manufacturers (as well as being a sponsored driver) to working for a high-profile industry magazine. During this time he has learned many tricks, tips and techniques and is sharing that knowledge on CompetitionX - the most informative RC website on the internet!
