if you wanted to build a pre-runner on a BUDGET. I mean, seriously. . .we'd all love to have a Class 1 or a Trophy Truck based pre-runner, but what about something that works the way you want it to and doesn't cost an arm and a leg. Keep in mind that the type of pre-running that is done in the states is quick, but not race speed and is done in either one or two days, so driving the pre-runner to the pre-run would be a good idea.

ME? Well. . .I'd go super simple

I'd find the best deal on a 4x4/4.0 ranger that I could. Probably a beam truck w/AC. Cut/Turn/plate the stock beams, use 4" lift springs from a Bronco (Deaver) and 2.5" smoothbody shocks in the front. Simple shock hoops/engine cage tied in to a good cab cage by RGR Fab. Bed Cage, Deavers, more 2.5 smoothies and a sunken fuel cell like El Chivo's. Room for 3 vertical spares so it could be used as a chase truck as well. Race seats/ 5 Points, Radio.. silver paint, 2" fiberglass.. .done.

If I found a good deal on an A-arm truck, the only difference would be do do 7100 style drop spindles and upper arms in the front strapped at 12". I wonder if 2.5" coilovers would fit with the 4x4 front axle. It looks like they would? In fact, this might be easier to do than the beams. The tougher manual tranny would be nice too.

Either way: 12" of front travel, 14" to 16" of rear. A little softer ride than El Chivo, Cold AC and a few cup holders. . .33" tires...could be entered in Sportsman's to chase and driven to/from the pre-runs on 33" Goodyear ATs.

Scouts!!!!!!!
I think Scout II's are the unforscene wave of the future!!!
Good size,not to big,not to small!!!
Good front to rear balance ratio!
Solid axle 4x4,11 inches of travel,35's

Solis choice!!!

I'm going nowhere...

The site is a little slow and thought that prerunners would be a good topic.

Gives me chills just thinking about it!!!

I dissagree. I think first gen broncos are the way to go. They have already proven themselves

First Gen Broncos you say? HMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

Now that sounds like a solid idea.

Wait'll that Scout is done ...Mmmm, how long we been saying that

LOL You guys are alot of fun.
I would go with something close to what you are going to race. Either an I-beam or A-arm ranger, that will make getting the race truck set up easier.
I wished I had the money to build an I-beam F-150 2wd short bed, just like our race truck. It would make my guessing game a whole lot easier when it comes to set up.

Just my two cents worth... Gary
Empty Pockets Racing
BITD Truck 8115

Or for long term cost effectiveness

http://www.race-dezert.com/cgi-bin/trad ... d&id=30274