Rock crawling isn’t just about getting to the top—it’s about doing it with precision, speed, and control. In this video, we catch up with Rodney from Lasernut Racing to break down the incredible engineering behind their single-seat unlimited class buggy, built for the toughest rock crawling challenges.
From low weight and tight packaging to innovative techs like portal hubs and rear-steer functionality, this 10mph max speed and 42" BF Goodrich tyre-equipped buggy is a masterclass in off-road engineering. Rodney takes us through the key decisions, such as using a 220hp 2.0L Chevy LNF Ecotec engine for its compact size and power-to-weight ratio and the ingenious placement of the axle-mounted fuel cell for improved safety and balance.
Learn how air lockers and diff locks provide precise control, and how hydraulic winches keep the suspension loaded during vertical climbs. Plus, explore the air suspension system that allows the vehicle to adjust ride height by up to 20 inches on the fly.
On the electronics side, Rodney explains how the Ecumaster PMU16 and ADU5 Dash streamline power distribution and steering control using Blink Marine CAN-based keypads. With clever innovations like adjustable steering indicators and a ride height potentiometer, this buggy has no shortage of cutting-edge solutions.
If you’re into off-road motorsport or just love clever engineering, this deep dive into rock crawling tech is one you won’t want to miss.
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TIME STAMPS:
0:00 - Rodney - Lasernut Racing
0:15 - What Is Rockcrawling?
1:00 - Unlimited Class Build Goals
2:03 - Learning To Drive
2:22 - Spotter
2:33 - Wheel Time
2:46 - Air Lockers/Diff Locks | Why Selectable?
3:21 - Live Axle, Why Not Independant?
3:44 - Ultra4 Class Example
4:09 - Portal Hubs
4:44 - Torque Vs Speed
5:16 - Engine Selection | Chevy LNF
5:56 - Why Not An LS V8?
6:16 - Axle Mounted Fuel Cell
7:04 - Lean Angles
7:34 - Winch Setup
8:14 - Air Suspension Height Control
9:06 - Electronics Setup
9:34 - CAN Bus Communications
9:49 - Why A Factory ECU?
10:20 - Adjustable Steering Indicator
11:24 - Potentiometer Setup
11:54 - BUILD.TUNE.DRIVE
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