Scratch build materials

[crusher]

Hi, what do you guys use primarily when scratch building an excavator or dozer, Do you use steel or aluminum, also on the cab parts especially excavators do you use metal or plastic. I am new to this hobby and getting fired up to build.
Thanks
Terry

[gordon0803]

Check the Construction equipment threads there are many great builds in there. I have see both aluminum and steel used and some times both in the same build. I think it is more of what you want to work with. Plus the cost for the material.

[pumptech]

Originally Posted by crusher

Hi, what do you guys use primarily when scratch building an excavator or dozer, Do you use steel or aluminum, also on the cab parts especially excavators do you use metal or plastic. I am new to this hobby and getting fired up to build.
Thanks
Terry

Hey Terry
The Lowe's in my area carries a good variety of different metals.
Alum angle,etc ,mild steel stuff,small pieces of thin gauge sheet metal,precut like 8x20 ,angle ,square tubing come in 4ft pieces.
Its where I get some of my supplies for builds.
Good luck with your project

[crusher]

Thanks for the replies, I have the tools and equip for either aluminum or steel and can usually find it, the aluminum is a lot nicer to work with but I wonder if the model would turn out too light weight for digging etc.
Terry

[Espeefan]

For the most part, any readily available RC model kit's major sub-structures are built out of aluminum. It's light and strong. Some of the larger machines, like those from Vario, are steel, with some unique epoxy-like casting over the top, for detail purposes. Shear size and weight seems to really boost the performance, but I think most would agree that the smaller aluminum models run pretty good too.

[pigeonfarmboy]

Yup, all about what material you're more comfortable/skilled working with.