Racing the Baja - A little help?

[SAR_Squid79]

Okay guys - One of my best friends just inherited 3.2 million dollars. Today we were talking about the movie Dust To Glory. I made a comment that the way the race is structured, hypothetically I could enter my truck (with a little modification) into the race. He told me that he would pay for whatever needed to be done to get my truck race ready. I asked him if that included buying me a new truck after mine was destroyed in the race. This gave us the idea of buying kind of a fixer-upper Tacoma, and modding it to be able to run the Baja 500, or 1000.

I don't know a whole lot about this subject, but he has the money, and he's serious about doing it. He wants to be the Navigator, and I'll be the driver, and be in charge of the truck.

Realistically - what all would we need, to be able to enter a Tacoma into the Baja? We have no illusions of winning, but we would like to have a decent chance at finishing.
SO... if we bought a stock tacoma - say a 98/99/2000 - what all would we have to do to it, to make it race legal? What other gear would we need (radios, GPS, air filtration, etc)? What would we need in a chase crew? How much are the registration fees? What SCORE Class would we be in? Do you guys think this is feasible at all?

[jerky]

start here http://www.esbfabrications.com/esbfabricationsgallery.htm

good luck! :welder:

[miguelitro]

read what i just posted in the baja 500 thread in talk about wheeling section.
If you do decide to do I will help out anyway i can, i know baja allright, live inn san diega and will help out with prerunning arrangment and all that.
:thumbs:
Mike

[miguelitro]

and if you run BFG tires you can use their pits!

there is a great thread over at desert rangers that will tell you what NOT to do:D its only 15 pages long but there are some good points in there

oh and get the Score rule book so your shit will pass tech after its built or just get someone real good to build it fr ya. and race to finish not to win or to prove anything!

*end rant* god i love baja:D

[SAR_Squid79]

and race to finish not to win or to prove anything!

That's exactly what we want to do. I just want to start compiling a rough list, and be able to get a rough estimate of how much this would cost. I think we wants to keep it under $25,000, if possible.

This is exactly like the Truck I'm envisioning for us:

http://img49.imageshack.us/img49/3953/06baja5003198bz.jpg

http://img208.imageshack.us/img208/245/06baja5003204rh.jpg

[Bear]

I think the first thing you need to do is figure out why you have a check engine light on your present truck!

Okay all kidding aside, I personally do not have any Baja experience, but got that same "rush" after watching the Dust To Glory DVD. (my son got it for Xmas after I rented it) We still watch it all the time.

But once upon a time I was serious about getting into stock car racing. Nothing major, mostly local stuff.

What does this have to do with your thread? $25000 would barely get my foot in the door back then (ten years ago) I can't imagine that budget would get you very far today.

Do a lot of research as been recommended before, make it a 5 year plan or something like that…don't rush into it. Basically set everything up as if you were doing a business plan. That will help you stay on track.

Also on the technical side…think Fiberglass and tube. I think that would give you the best chance of finishing. The taco is very cabable, but that race is rough! Don't under-estimate it!

Man I wish so very much to even be in a position to even consider something like you are…I do sincerely wish you the best of luck!

(of coarse you would have to run TTORA on your truck…you do realize that don't you?)
Oh yea! I already got you the perfect skid plate for your Baja truck! ;)

[hawaiianbro]

Pay me to go down and I'll be one of the chase trucks! lol

[miguelitro]

no one gets paid to go down, the team might give em a little gas $ or some beer and food $ but everyone there helping out is doing cuz they LOVE baja racing, that is one of the things that makes it so cool!!!

stock frame the rest would have to be tube with the stock body, i have no idea how much respirators and all that cost, the roll cage would easily be over 4000 to have it really strong enough to save your life. shit there is soooo much that goes into it you have no fucking idea...start reading at racedesert.com and desertrangers, ask questions if you must you will get laughed at...people take this shit seriously, have been for 20 years and still have problems down there. D2G glorified it as do all brown family movies.

[Bear]

X2! except I heard SAS Tacos are not the most ideal chase rig!

[pinto246]

good luck man its a long way to get a reliable rig set up. especially for baja. ESB fab is a good company, and im not just saying that cause im friends with mike. my friend started in MDR racing and got his truck dialed in. that took a while and alot of money but now he is doing great in the 1400 class in score. good luck and have patients.

[miguelitro]

good luck man its a long way to get a reliable rig set up. especially for baja. ESB fab is a good company, and im not just saying that cause im friends with mike. my friend started in MDR racing and got his truck dialed in. that took a while and alot of money but now he is doing great in the 1400 class in score. good luck and have patients.

this is true. get it built right once then abuse the hell out of it break shit fix it, then tear it down and start again! some people just wan tto race baja for the sake of racing baja...sure it would help to have experience, shit it would help alot!!! but people with experience still make mistakes, still get stuck, still break down...
i say go for it but do a lot of planning.

oh and 1 more thing..are you planning on iron manning the whol 500 miles? it sounds easy but shit driving all day in 110 degree heat will kick your ass. think about having atleast one other driver and two navigators who have both preran their section thoroughly...
Mike

[SAR_Squid79]

I think the first thing you need to do is figure out why you have a check engine light on your present truck!


CHECK! :kewl:

http://www.tacomaterritory.com/forum/showthread.php?t=36885

[Tweeter]

If you need a chase truck let me know.

You will need a pit crew, trailer, and a couple other full size trucks.

First firgure out your budget and what class you can run, then you will know exactly what to do to the truck. A cage, fuel cell, seats, harnesses, and gps are pretty much standard. For mods check out these:

www.chaosfab.com

www.bajaconcepts.com

Also check out www.dezertrangers.com for more info that's my main board....let me know if you have any questions.

[miguelitro]

If you need a chase truck let me know.

You will need a pit crew, trailer, and a couple other full size trucks.

First firgure out your budget and what class you can run, then you will know exactly what to do to the truck. A cage, fuel cell, seats, harnesses, and gps are pretty much standard. For mods check out these:

www.chaosfab.com

www.bajaconcepts.com

Also check out www.dezertrangers.com for more info that's my main board....let me know if you have any questions.


RESPIRATOR!!!! i've heard it gets dusty in that race:rolleyes:

[Tweeter]

Just a little advice, you might want to run sportsman (1450) if you want to have fun, not worry about winning back money, and having a well built truck. You'll need to long travel the front and rear with TC, Burg, ESB, JD and in the back you'll either link it a leaf spring it. I'd recommend leafs since it will still be streetable after Baja, links ride like ass on the road. Just my :2cents:

[SAR_Squid79]

You know what guys...?

I just watched the 2-Episode Monster Garage Trophy Truck Build, and Baja 1000 Race. I think I know everything I need to know!

Just kidding. This may never happen, but we just want to see how feasible it could be, and maybe we could do it.

I just ordered the Official SCORE Rule Book, so we'll see what she says.

Thanks for all the inputs so far. Keep 'em coming.

[miguelitro]

fuck it link it the chicks dig links:D even if it never happens its good to know other share the dream...but i'll do it on a bike so dont run me down if you catch meLOL

[seth_js]

I just ordered the Official SCORE Rule Book, so we'll see what she says.

I have a guy here at work that is interested also. Where did you get the Score rule book from? I get an error when I try looking at it on their site. I'm assuming the rule book covers all the different classes and what not?

-Seth

[SAR_Squid79]

Found this on another site.
I'm gonna send for it.

NOW AVAILABLE!
2003-2006 SCORE International's
Rules & Regulations Book
The SCORE Rule Book covers the technical and general rules for all of SCORE International's racing classes. It is available for $20.00 plus $2.50 shipping and handling (California residents must include an additional $1.65 sales tax).
To order a book please fill out this form and return it along with a check, money order or cashier's check (in US dollars only) payable to:
SCORE International
23961 Craftsman Rd. #A
Calabasas, CA 91302
NAME:__________________________________ ADDRESS:____________________________________ CITY:___________________________________ ST:_______________ZIP:_______________________
Please direct all technical questions to SCORE's Tech Director, Bill Savage at 760/599-1013

[Baja Belk]

I can send you a rule book for shipping costs only. If I can find it. I just got another one cuz I had to renew my SCORE membership.

I say run in Sportsman. If you were to put long travel and make your truck actually capable/comfortable you would have to run in class 7 open, and you'd be way overmatched. But class 7x and 7sx have too many restrictions to really have any fun.

I'm all for grassroots and the underdogs, but I think most people don't really know what they're getting into. $25,000 might get you a decent start on your truck, but there's WAY more things to consider than just the truck. For one thing, to make your truck legal for ANY class, you'll need a full cage, fuel cell, safety restraints, window nets, GPS, yada yada yada. A good cage isn't cheap, nor is a fuel cell. Let's say for argument's sake you want to be able to race next year's 500. You'll need to get hotel rooms NOW. Pitting with BFG will save you a lot of chasing logistics, but you'll still need AT LEAST 2 chase trucks, one on each side of the mountains. There will probably be 3 BFG pits. Figure two spare tires on the truck, one at each BFG pit, and one on each chase truck. 7 tires and rims aren't cheap. You'll want at least one spare: alternater, starter, air filter, water pump, distributor, battery, etc. You'll want a couple spare belts, both on the truck and in the chase trucks. 3 good jacks, full set of tools on both chase trucks, maybe a spare driveshaft, tie rods, brake pads, shit I could go on and on. Basically bring everything and hope you need nothing. You'll need good lights on the truck. Blah blah blah. I don't know what sportsman entry fees are, I wanna say $700 ish, but Pro is about $1,300. $75 for SCORE Membership for driver and rider. Mexican insurance for all vehicles. Gas, food, hotels. And you'll need to prerun AT LEAST once. So that means gas, food, hotels, and insurance for a whole extra weekend.

You get the point. I'm not saying it can't be done, but if you want to have ANY chance of finishing, you'll want at least all that. Just so you get a little better idea. I recommend finding someone that's racing and chase/pit for them so you can get some sort of idea of how the flow of the race goes. It's much different than just specating. Good luck, racing in Baja is an unforgettable experience. If you have any other questions let me know.

Mike

[pinto246]

even if it never happens its good to know other share the dream...

couldnt have said it better myself. i know if i ever run into alot of money its the first thing i will do. And i second the 4-link, GO BIG OR GO HOME!!!

[speedster]

That's exactly what we want to do. I just want to start compiling a rough list, and be able to get a rough estimate of how much this would cost. I think we wants to keep it under $25,000, if possible.

This is exactly like the Truck I'm envisioning for us:

http://img49.imageshack.us/img49/3953/06baja5003198bz.jpg

http://img208.imageshack.us/img208/245/06baja5003204rh.jpg

That is Camburg's Ranger "TT"...which they ran at Baja. That truck is far more that $25,000, but don't let that discourage you from having a great truck. Like others have said, racing sportsman will probably be the best for you budget and skill. I would highly consider investing more money into the logistics, chase vehicles and prep before doing any racing. Having a capable truck is only a small part of racing a race such as baja, you need a great team behind you to support you and your truck. Do not cut corners in this area or it will come back to bite you. You could have a great handling truck, but you need to the team behind you. I would recommend getting a truck built, test, race smaller races to really put the truck through it's paces (racing is the best testing) and then when you feel the truck is ready then race baja...prepared. You will be more comfortable driving and have a lot more confidence in yourself and the truck. Do not rush to race baja, it will be a mistake. Good luck and I hope everything works out for you guys.

[miguelitro]

and according to DR you might need radios...:D

[TEJASYOTA]

Good luck on the build and eventual race!
Don't forget to post the TTORA sticker proudly! :D

[Baja Belk]

.....oh and practice your 2WD rock-climbing skills....

[TacoDell]

Just get with Donahoe... his junk finished the race... Maybe he'd even help with the sponsering if you run his stuff... Wouldn't hurt to ask if yer serious... ;)

[Half Baked Taco]

I would also recommend Sportsman if you are going to attempt to jump right into it. Once you get your truck SCORE legal and tag it I would recommend entering a few MDR or MORE races to get some seat time and experience before next year (or a couple of years if you're serious). Lots, and I mean lots, of preparation and planning will be needed just as Mike (bajaRnr12) and Miguelitro mentioned and I'm sure there will plently of guys from TTORA willing to help out. Even those solid axle guys can help by manning certain pit areas in some spots (didn't want to leave out those SAS guys) lol.

Please, just don't be these guys that attempted to race for the first time in the Baja 500. Don't get me wrong, it was a valiant effort, but there lack of preparation before the race (no radio communication) was just plain stupid if you ask me. It's a long read but very entertianing. co-driver driving back to hotel?! WTF (http://dezertrangers.com/cgi-bin/ib/ikonboard.cgi?;act=ST;f=1;t=39257)

I would suggest that ESB link, but go to his home page where it links to this Custom builds (http://www.esbfabrications.com/custom.htm) His work it top notch and affordable compared to industry leaders in other classes. With production parts he is usually VERY slow in getting them done, but I'm pretty positive if you drop a pretty penny on a custom build he WILL get that done.

Good luck with the whole thing as the experience should be priceless!!

BajaRnr12, great race report on your Baja500. Sorry to hear about the whole thing, but congrats on the other half of the team!! I see they have the pics up congratulating the 5 car on Kartek's home page!

[miguelitro]

that thread should be required reading for all attempting baja the first time.
Have a game plan! even without radios if they had a plan and stuck to it they would not have had that problem...shit they didnt even break down! DNF with a running car

[DCabTaco]

Hey Jamie let me know if you need any help. I would love to help out. Good luck!

[2WDRJ]

Man, you're living my dream! One thing I would think about it just finishing! In D2G they showed the class 11 VW Bugs. Try to stay at their pace and you might finish within the time limit. Hell, even if you don't finish, you'll still have an experience most of us will never have!

[TacoDell]

I would also recommend Sportsman if you are going to attempt to jump right into it. Once you get your truck SCORE legal and tag it I would recommend entering a few MDR or MORE races to get some seat time and experience before next year (or a couple of years if you're serious). Lots, and I mean lots, of preparation and planning will be needed just as Mike (bajaRnr12) and Miguelitro mentioned and I'm sure there will plently of guys from TTORA willing to help out. Even those solid axle guys can help by manning certain pit areas in some spots (didn't want to leave out those SAS guys) lol.

Please, just don't be these guys that attempted to race for the first time in the Baja 500. Don't get me wrong, it was a valiant effort, but there lack of preparation before the race (no radio communication) was just plain stupid if you ask me. It's a long read but very entertianing. co-driver driving back to hotel?! WTF (http://dezertrangers.com/cgi-bin/ib/ikonboard.cgi?;act=ST;f=1;t=39257)

I would suggest that ESB link, but go to his home page where it links to this Custom builds (http://www.esbfabrications.com/custom.htm) His work it top notch and affordable compared to industry leaders in other classes. With production parts he is usually VERY slow in getting them done, but I'm pretty positive if you drop a pretty penny on a custom build he WILL get that done.

Good luck with the whole thing as the experience should be priceless!!

BajaRnr12, great race report on your Baja500. Sorry to hear about the whole thing, but congrats on the other half of the team!! I see they have the pics up congratulating the 5 car on Kartek's home page!

Holy shit... that shit was funny.... LOL

[miguelitro]

you must have some time on your hands to be reading that during the work day LOL

[99ARTaco]

That's exactly what we want to do. I just want to start compiling a rough list, and be able to get a rough estimate of how much this would cost. I think we wants to keep it under $25,000, if possible.

This is exactly like the Truck I'm envisioning for us:

http://img49.imageshack.us/img49/3953/06baja5003198bz.jpg

http://img208.imageshack.us/img208/245/06baja5003204rh.jpg

Dude for $25,000 you might as well just get you 2 plain tickets and a rental car and just go down to the race and get all tore up as a spectator.

[miguelitro]

i disagree but its not gonna be easy, just gotta spend the $$$ on what is absolutly necesary

[99ARTaco]

i guess it all depends on what the money is used for, you're right. if that's just the purse to build with then you can definately build a solid race truck, but if that's what you have to race on, build, and be competitive then forget it. Back in the 70's-80's you could do it with that price range but now adays forget it. Eitherway good luck bro, I didn't mean to be the negitive one telling you that it can't be done. cause hell as far as I know you may be able to build the whole truck in your garage???

[miguelitro]

and the point is to finish!!! being competitive WILL cost MUCH more than that!

[OOwballer]

I personally think that you need to scrap the truck idea. you will end up spending way more than your 25k budget.

You should look into what score calls their Baja Challenge class (Baja touring cars). Basically you pay a certain sum of money and they set you up with a vehicle (a buggy), pit support, and most everything you need. Everybody in this class races identical vehicles so the competition will be good, and you have a very good chance of finishing.

From what i have heard you should be able to do that in your budget. Plus you will not have to worry about all the loose ends. For someone who has some money and just wants to go race, this is the perfect class for them.

[Half Baked Taco]

ah yes....the Baja Challenge with the Wide Open Baja cars. Here are three different ones at last years Baja1k. These pics were taken on day2 so they were still on their way to the finish line while other classes broken. Here is their website if you want to go on one of their rides before race time Wide Open Baja (http://wideopenbaja.com/) Looks like a great experience if you are not going the planning and prepping for a car of your own.

[Half Baked Taco]

I forgot to mention if you are going to build the tacoma the perfect person to talk to his Shroom on this board. I do not know if he is still active in the racing community, but he has raced his Tacoma in a few SCORE events. He should be able to give you all the information you need in living the ultimate dream of racing Baja.

BajaRnr12 doesn't count. He has a fast cars in other fast classes lol j/k

[miguelitro]

i think that half the fun of it is prepping and being prepared and being essentially on your own...kinda like being in baja;) guided tours are a great way to see baja but its not racin

[Baja Belk]

ah yes....the Baja Challenge with the Wide Open Baja cars. Here are three different ones at last years Baja1k. These pics were taken on day2 so they were still on their way to the finish line while other classes broken. Here is their website if you want to go on one of their rides before race time Wide Open Baja (http://wideopenbaja.com/) Looks like a great experience if you are not going the planning and prepping for a car of your own.

In 2003 my dad and I and a friend volunteered to pit/chase for one of the Wide Open teams, and we ended up getting Jesse James, Chad McQueen (son of Steve), and a couple magazine guys. It was a fun experience overall, but pretty exhausting. I think it's something like $60,000 per car to race the 1000 (they only do the 1000), so if you get 6 guys to go in on it, you can do the math. But before you go jumping into that, I would do one of their Baja tours. They do like 3-7 day tours throughout Baja, and it's a good way to get a feel for the terrain and have a good time without having to worry about any logistics. Definitely something worth looking into at least.

[Baja Belk]

I forgot to mention if you are going to build the tacoma the perfect person to talk to his Shroom on this board. I do not know if he is still active in the racing community, but he has raced his Tacoma in a few SCORE events. He should be able to give you all the information you need in living the ultimate dream of racing Baja.

BajaRnr12 doesn't count. He has a fast cars in other fast classes lol j/k

Hey! My Tacoma's done a couple SCORE races.....just not during the actual race. :rolleyes: And I've finished every time! :D

[Baja Belk]

I just saw you were in Illinois. Dude just buy a beater and build a CORR truck. Way less logistics....and fun as hell. Then bring it down to Baja when it's all thrashed up, enter the 1000, drive it till it breaks, then sell it for gas money to get back home :D

[miguelitro]

I just saw you were in Illinois. Dude just buy a beater and build a CORR truck. Way less logistics....and fun as hell. Then bring it down to Baja when it's all thrashed up, enter the 1000, drive it till it breaks, then sell it for gas money to get back home :D

good point about corr racing that shit looks fun! but i disagree about guided tours of baja, if you are gonna race ther you had better be able to get around without help, read maps, talk to locals..plus its way more rewarding when you think you are lost and then you see the sign for mike's:D

[SAR_Squid79]

ah yes....the Baja Challenge with the Wide Open Baja cars. Here are three different ones at last years Baja1k. These pics were taken on day2 so they were still on their way to the finish line while other classes broken. Here is their website if you want to go on one of their rides before race time Wide Open Baja (http://wideopenbaja.com/) Looks like a great experience if you are not going the planning and prepping for a car of your own.
Wide Open Baja (http://wideopenbaja.com/)
Now this looks like the best option yet!

I'll have to look into CORR too.

Yes, I'm in Illinois (right now) but I lived in San Diego for 8 years, and will be moving back there in the not too distant future. My buddy with the money is moving back (from here) to San Diego early next year. We're still looking at our options on all of this. SO far this is the list I've compiled: (I just need to put prices by all of these items)

Baja Dream Sheet:

Truck (‘98 - ‘00 Tacoma)
Long Travel Front Suspension
3-Link Rear Suspension
4 BFG tires
4 Rims
full cage
fuel cell
5-point safety restraints
window nets
GPS
Helmets
Air filtration for helmets
Intercom
Satellite Phone
Radio
2 chase trucks (one on each side of the mountains)
*Lighting
*Door Latches

SPARES
7 Spare BFG tires
7 Spare Rims
Alternater
Starter
air filters
water pump
Distributor
Battery
Belts
3 Jacks
full set of tools on both chase trucks
Driveshaft
tie rods
brake pads
*Fuel Pump

Administrative
Entry Fee
2 SCORE Memberships
Gas x 2 (Prerunning & Race)
Food x 2 (Prerunning & Race)
Mexican Insurance x 2 (Prerunning & Race)
Hotel Rooms x 2 (Prerunning & Race)

Feel Free to point out things to add to the list!

* = Items added (edited in) to the list

[Tweeter]

Fuel pump and a couple more air filters on top of the spare :2cents:

Also you might want to tie in a light rack, what are you going to do for lighting?

[SAR_Squid79]

I meant to put lighting on the list.
I was thinking a lot of Hella Rallye 4000 MOTORSPORT HID's!

Hell - it ain't my money! :D

[Tweeter]

HID would be the way to go in my opinion. I'll go ahead and offer my services as a chase truck/pit crew if you need help. I'm sure Rojodiablo and I could help you out as he is very Baja-knowledge-able (wow sp?) as well. You will also need door latches to meet SCORE's expectations, sounds like you're running sportsman? (1450/1400?)

[lasquintanas]

I'm down to chase for free!

[Tweeter]

I'm down to chase for free!

Same here...I'm waiting for his reply

[R-techTUNDRA]

I'm down to chase for free!
me to willing to chase for free

[cabo john]

If your serious about racing baja...and your vehicle passes tech I will donate $100. I will also dontate $50 for each 100 miles of the race you COMPLETE.

[miguelitro]

have a little faith...:D

[SAR_Squid79]

I'm down to chase for free!
Same here...I'm waiting for his reply
me to willing to chase for free


AWESOME!

As I have stated earlier, this all depends on the guy with the money. I damn sure don't have enough money to even think of this undertaking. I'm not sure how committed he is, and I'm not sure how committed he'll become until we nail down a more firm price range. I talked to him about the Wide Open Baja thing, and he seemed to like that idea best, b/c that's just as simple as buying a couple of tickets and showing up. Again this is something we have to research further. I appreciate all the interest so far, and all the offers to help, and I am as excited as hell - but I'm not picking up the tab on this, so right now we'll just have to wait and see. If by some chance this does get the green light - I'm gonna call all of you guys out on your offers! ...and wear the TTORA decal proudly! :dancing:

[cabo john]

I have faith... :)

I did the baja in 96 in a single seater 10 (dnf)... lost the power steering rather quickly, several hours later the rear suspension, then tranny. I kept the vehicle going forward as far as I could... I think it was around 11:00pm somewhere near San Felipe and out of nowhere in the middle of the desert I see a sign.
#1) Q. Are you hungry? WTF - I must be seeing things???

a few miles later I see a second sign.
#2) Q. Are you thirsty?

I see a third sign.
#3) Do you want to party???

I thought I had lost my mind til I came around a corner and all I see are christmas lights & palm trees & bar in the middle of the friggen dezert.
Team Green (Kawasaki) set up a bar along the race course! bbq, bar in the middle of the desert just off the course. Free food & drinks... now that's what i'm talking about.

I will bring the tequila. :p

[Tweeter]

- I'm gonna call all of you guys out on your offers! ...and wear the TTORA decal proudly! :dancing:

Go ahead, my answer won't change. :kewl:

[rojodiablo]

That's exactly what we want to do. I just want to start compiling a rough list, and be able to get a rough estimate of how much this would cost. I think we wants to keep it under $25,000, if possible.

This is exactly like the Truck I'm envisioning for us:

http://img49.imageshack.us/img49/3953/06baja5003198bz.jpg

http://img208.imageshack.us/img208/245/06baja5003204rh.jpg
That truck is more in the $100,000 range. $25k in parts alone!! If it were your first foray into baja racing, try the stock mini class with a 2000-2004 tacoma 4wd, non trd. The 4wd is kind of mandatory as of late, and the parts will cost a ton less than any built trucks. The coilover IFS tacos are easier to do the front than the older ones with torsion bars. No LT, just a coilover and bigger bumpstops. Then, a leaf pack out back, and shocks. You can build that truck for 25K. And CORR isn't a bad idea. I was on the Balwin's " vessel" this weekend, and Jim is definitely going to try and keep the series so that newcomers will be welcome. And logistically, CORR is 1000 times easier than Mex.

[R-techTUNDRA]

check this out..way over 25k but this truck is race proven ....
http://www.donahoeracing.com/forsale.php

[SAR_Squid79]

check this out..way over 25k but this truck is race proven ....
http://www.donahoeracing.com/forsale.php
Thanks for pointing that out - I had forgotten about that.

That truck may be a real possibility. Now if I could just get a couple of sponsors. . .

[Tweeter]

Thanks for pointing that out - I had forgotten about that.

That truck may be a real possibility. Now if I could just get a couple of sponsors. . .

Trying picking places like ORW or Kartek or something :dunno: just a thought.

[SAR_Squid79]

I wonder if URD would sponsor it - I've given them plenty of MY money!
...and we'd definitely be Underdogs!

[Baja Belk]

Trying picking places like ORW or Kartek or something :dunno: just a thought.

Good idea, but Kartek's already got a ton of money in contingency and prize money, and everyone runs their stickers already anyway. I'm sure ORW is happy with Hovey. Try smaller places. We got $1,000 worth of an air compressor and CO2 bottle for my truck from Sun Performance Products ( ? yah I'd never heard of them either) for free just for running their sticker at the 1000 last year. Whore out the side of that truck!

[Tweeter]

Good idea, but Kartek's already got a ton of money in contingency and prize money, and everyone runs their stickers already anyway. I'm sure ORW is happy with Hovey. Try smaller places. We got $1,000 worth of an air compressor and CO2 bottle for my truck from Sun Performance Products ( ? yah I'd never heard of them either) for free just for running their sticker at the 1000 last year. Whore out the side of that truck!

Meh just pick whatever will sponsor you I've seen trucks with Pechanga stickers and whatnot doesn't have to be big. That'd be sweet if you could get Dr. Pepper LOL

[Baja Belk]

Meh just pick whatever will sponsor you I've seen trucks with Pechanga stickers and whatnot doesn't have to be big. That'd be sweet if you could get Dr. Pepper LOL

lol, you don't want Pechanga! Mike Voyles, the Pechanga sponsored Trophy Truck, started 1st off the line at the Baja 500. Very first 4-wheeled vehicle to start, mobs of people lining the street, the flag drops, the engine roars, he makes the left-hand turn.............................................. ...........................
.................................................. .................................................. ......
.................and the tranny blows 50 yards from the start. DNF Ouch.

[TimF]

Oh shit I didn't know that was him that did that!!!


Hey at least he didn't have to tow it far!

[Baja Belk]

Oh shit I didn't know that was him that did that!!!


Hey at least he didn't have to tow it far!

Dammit you found me!! :mad: You win round 1....

[DesertTRD]

Lets step into the realm of reality here.. 25k isnt even close to enough

(Min-Max)

5000 - 10000 Tacoma Truck
2000 - 7000 Front LT Kit
1700 - 2500 Front Shocks (Coilover / Bypass / Bump)
1000 - 1800 Leaf Springs / Rear 3 link
1700 - 2500 Rear Shocks (Coilover / Bypass / Bump)
2000 - 3000 All tubing needed to build truck (Score 2006-2010 spec is 2" Chromoly min for main structure)
1000 - 2000 Saftey Equipment (Seats / Harnesses / Misc)
2000 - 2000 Lighting (you mentioned HID's so say 4 to start)
7000 - 8000 All the MISC stuff that you will find you need as your building
15000 - 30000 Fabricator for his time to build your truck (work fee)
1000 - 1500 Entry fee for SCORE (depending on race and class)


Now these are just rough figures most of them will be more.... I can guarentee it... Ive been there done that, you dont realize how much your spending JUST to prep the truck for 1 race until you actually sit down and think about it. Ive had times we have spent over 2000 for just 1 day of fun... our last testing session cost us almost 500 bucks... and that was just to go out and shake it down for a race..

Now my figures most teams will laugh at, only because it costs more. I know for the Baja 500 this year, Billy Gasper who runs a porter 10 car spent over 20k on his prep alone.. and this was for one race and not a final # either.

If your serious about this and your guy is then hes gotta be commited to it. I would venture to say that for a build alone your looking at around 60k if your lucky by time your finishing it up.. and your first race i would not race baja, get some experience behind the wheel first race local, hell take it to your favorite offroad spot, baja actually has lots of different terrain from rocks to fire roads to sand wash's to long flat whoop sections where you want to die...

[TimF]

Dammit you found me!! :mad: You win round 1....


HAHAHAHA

Well you didn't go far but I'll take it!

I win 1 to nothin:wiggle:

[SAR_Squid79]

Well fellas,
Looks like we might actually be buying this Truck from DR!

http://img160.imageshack.us/img160/333/drtacoma8sn.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://www.donahoeracing.com/forsale.php

[TimF]

Nice!!!! Good luck!!!

[miguelitro]

cool, now you get to see which of those who offered help will actually drive to bfe baja and actually be of any help:thumbs:

[AJC408]

Whoa! Looks amazing!!!

[Baja Belk]

Sweet... is it still legal in 7s or whatever class they used to run in? Is that what you're gonna run it as?

[bigairrider01]

Sweet... is it still legal in 7s or whatever class they used to run in? Is that what you're gonna run it as?

according to the donahoe website its a 7sx, they have a different rear end suspension ssince they switched to that class, 62's with triple bypasses, and added some bypasses up front

[Baja Belk]

according to the donahoe website its a 7sx, they have a different rear end suspension ssince they switched to that class, 62's with triple bypasses, and added some bypasses up front

Hmmm....I thought 7sx was limited to a 3.0 motor??? I'll have to look that up if I can find my rule book.....

[TimF]

7SX is the modified stock class so almost the same rules as 7S but you can run more shocks and up to a 4.5 V6. There are too damn many mini classes! They need to take it back to 7 open and 7 stock and call it a day!

The 7S is limited to stock suspension components and a 3.0L V6 and 1 2.5" shock per wheel I think.

[Tweeter]

cool, now you get to see which of those who offered help will actually drive to bfe baja and actually be of any help:thumbs:

I'm still down to chase/pit for free :kewl:

Good choice on buying the truck you saved yourself a lot of money and time right there fellas!

[Baja Belk]

7SX is the modified stock class so almost the same rules as 7S but you can run more shocks and up to a 4.5 V6. There are too damn many mini classes! They need to take it back to 7 open and 7 stock and call it a day!

The 7S is limited to stock suspension components and a 3.0L V6 and 1 2.5" shock per wheel I think.

Oh ok I got 7s and 7sx mixed up. Seriously, 7 open, 7 stock, and 1450. No more Rangers running in Trophy Truck....

[TimF]

So you where against the burgs doing that? You run a 12 car and I could see how you wouldn't want to deal with a ranger in front of you at the start of the race.

Yeah back in the 90's everyone wanted to run something a little differnt and have their own class with less people so it was easier for them to win so 7SX came along. Plus they wanted to run a bigger faster motor. I don't think score will at a 1400 type of class because it would pull people away from building a 7 open legal truck. I mean if I built a ranger or tacoma to race and had a choice between 7 open with a full frame and width restrictions and a totally open as long as there is a stock cab I would run the 1400 class.

Ok I'm done

[Blue Coyote]

Good to see you have been bitten by the racing bug. It is an uncureable disease, the only remedy is spend more $

If I had the $ to step up a few more notches, I would forget 7, 7s, 7sx, 1450, etc and run a Protruck with the Toyota motor. Much faster, cooler, and cost effective in the long run. For 100+k you could have the truck ready to go and cash to chase / race. Plus you can always sell one for 85-90K

25k for a Baja truck is not much $. It can be done, but be prepared to do lots of work your self. Buying a used truck to start off is always a good idea, but I know of no decent Taco's for sale.

The Donaho Taco in the photo was a Stock Mini - and a solid built truck. If available it would be good start.
Mini truck rules (short versoin)
Stock Mini - 100% stock with saftey equipment
7 open - stock frame rails, stock concept suspension, V6 upto 4.5
7s - Stock frame & suspension, 12" front travel, 4cyl or V6 upto 3.0
7sx - Stock frame & suspension, 12" front travel, V6 to 4.0
1450 - Steel cab and frame.
Neither class has any restriction on # or size of shocks.

Making the Baja 500 or 1000 your first race is not the best idea. Run a few local races to sort it all out. MORE now has a very good 7s program. BITD is an other good option.

For more info check out www.minitruckracing.net or www.bluecoyoteracing.com

[Baja Belk]

So you where against the burgs doing that? You run a 12 car and I could see how you wouldn't want to deal with a ranger in front of you at the start of the race.



Eh, not necessarily. I didn't really care and I understood where they were coming from with the marketing opportunity, but I think I would have been a little pissed were I a class 1. It's amazing how hard it is to get around a slower vehicle in the dust. At the 1000 last year I was stuck behind a QUAD for probably 10 miles on a long uphill silty section. Everytime I would get close he would throw up so much silt and dust that I had to slow down cuz I couldn't see the front of the car and we were on the side of a mountain with not much room for error. There were tall bushes lining the course so the dust would just hang there and not move at all. So that's my standpoint. Also, (I don't think it will happen, BUT...) I agree with some people that this might lead to an influx of more wannabe trophy trucks who really shouldn't be there. It's just not fair to the class 1 guys. And generally unsafe. The Burglars must have been way behind though because I had been stuck in the ditch at RM 130 for at least an hour before they came through. That's alot of downtime for a starting time in TT.

BTW I still want to see the rear camera footage. They claim no one hit them really hard but I call BS on that.

[7sx_Tacoma]

7sx is no more than 4000 cc and with 62's in the back its not legal for 7sx the new rule book states that the longest spring allowed is a 57.5 unless the manufacturer has a 62 inch spring on a mini or mid sized truck and I havent found a toyota with them, I've checked into this because im in the process of building a 7sx truck. If I had the money I would buy the donahoe truck instead of building one.

[bigairrider01]

7sx is no more than 4000 cc and with 62's in the back its not legal for 7sx the new rule book states that the longest spring allowed is a 57.5 unless the manufacturer has a 62 inch spring on a mini or mid sized truck and I havent found a toyota with them, I've checked into this because im in the process of building a 7sx truck. If I had the money I would buy the donahoe truck instead of building one.

hmm i think i might have just made up the 62's part then, they must have custom made springs in the rear, more i look at them they don't look like 62s, just took some deavers and went spring under

it's also confusing because the site lists 7sx tacoma but then the filenames for the pictures are labled 7 open

http://www.donahoeracing.com/images/project_vehicles/tacoma7open/tacoma7open_027.jpg
http://www.donahoeracing.com/images/project_vehicles/tacoma7open/tacoma7open_018.jpg

[Baja Belk]

If you do get the Hoe truck can you please do something about the 2 upper front lights?? Fugly. And restricts vision. But yah, mostly fugly....

[bigairrider01]

If you do get the Hoe truck can you please do something about the 2 upper front lights?? Fugly. And restricts vision. But yah, mostly fugly....

x2 on that suggestion

and dump the stock front bumper, messes up the lines up the prerunner bumper thats is built up front

[cabo john]

A good roll over should take care of the lights.
Yes, they are fugly.

[7sx_Tacoma]

x2 on that suggestion

and dump the stock front bumper, messes up the lines up the prerunner bumper thats is built up front

the only problem with dumping the stock front bumper is if he races in 7sx you have to retain the stock front bumper.

[SAR_Squid79]

Those lights might not be on there anymore - the info I have says that the truck now has 10 HID lights on it, so we'll see.

[Tweeter]

Are you set on buying that truck or are you still looking for a 98-00 Taco? I'm thinking of selling mine, not sure yet though.