Kyosho Optima Mid - SWB/Carbon/Runner

[j0pp3]

Hi guys,

I paused my restore projects for awhile and worked on my Optima Mid runner project. I have chosen to build my runner based on the SWB platform. I want a shorter car because of the layout of our local track.

So far I have been working on making carbon fiber parts with my dremel. It took relatively long time to craft them that way but I have no other tools. I bought the fiber plates from Hongkong and China and the car is made of 1.5/2.0/2.5mm thick material.

Let me show you some pictures of my progress so far. Chassis have been assembled for testing to see if I have missed something (which I have)

I personally think it look cool, like a stealth plane sort of. It certainly needs some bling colors later on

[Naushad]

That looks amazing....how did you make the parts exactly? I mean what techniques did you use?

I wish I had the skills to do this..

The screws on the underside look a little elevated. Did you leave them loose on purpose or are the countersinks in the chassis not wide enough? I can't tell. The hex screws give the car a modern slick appearance.

I'm sure with the cf build your car will be stiffer...I wonder how this will affect grip? I guess it depends what surface and tyres you use.

Nevertheless, this brings the optima mid to the modern day. Well done!

[j0pp3]

Thanks for your comment! I really appreciate it

I used this technique:
1. Find a part to use as a blueprint.
2. Place it on a carbon plate and drill two holes through two original holes.
3. Put a screw and a nut in those holes to keep it firm.
4. Use a dremel or similar and cut it roughly.
4. Now trim it closer and closer until you just touch the original part's outer bound.
5. Do the some thing with the inner areas that should be "holes".
5. Drill through all the original holes.
6. Take the blueprint away and file down any ugly areas.

I think that's about it

You are totally right about the screws underneath. I'm not done with the counter sunk yet. The hex screws are new from RC Screws and yes, they make it look good!

This will certainly affect the chassis flex but I'm not going to race it hard or compete with it. Just cruising around our track on sundays smiling because of the nostalgic memories

[Naushad]

I think I might do the same thing..

[j0pp3]

You should! Just ask me if you need help creating carbon parts. I only know about this particular technique though

[MHeadling]

Wear a dust mask! Carbon dust in the lungs isn't good at all.