GOING NUTS – The Ultimate Axial UTB18-ish Custom Build

In the world of radio-controlled crawlers, innovation knows no bounds. And when visionary minds from the RC community collaborate, magic happens. This story begins with a chance encounter at the Ultimate Scale Truck Expo (USTE) event, where I had the pleasure of meeting Theron Tate from 3flow9 and the team from Hardpark RC. What transpired was nothing short of extraordinary.

A WILD PLAN
We had recently reviewed the Axial UTB18 and had it on display at the event, and in a moment of jest I handed it over to Theron, saying, “Go nuts.” Little did I know that this simple act would lead to the creation of an exceptional custom build that defied expectations.

After a few weeks an email from Theron arrived, complete with a list of parts he wanted to use for the build. What immediately struck me was that these weren’t your typical, run-of-the-mill components. They were what I would call the “unusual suspects” in the RC world—renowned in the comp and custom scene but perhaps unfamiliar to the average RTR enthusiast. It was clear that this build would be unlike anything we’d seen before.

All Aftermarket

The only components retained from the stock UTB18 were the plastic transmission housing, driveshafts and axle shafts—a testament to the extensive modifications and upgrades that went into this build. The completed build made its debut at Axialfest Robbs Resort and left spectators in awe. Most couldn’t quite place the base vehicle, as it had been transformed beyond recognition. Technically, it still bore the Axial name, but it was a creature of its own kind.

When we showed the completed build at Axialfest Robbs Resort this year it was a great conversation starter; as noted, most people couldn’t figure out what it was based on but since it technically passed Tech it was still an Axial. We also had a heavily modified but recognizable Axial UTB18 displayed next to it to show how far you could take a UTB18 if you wanted the ultimate build in its segment. After wheeling it for a bit I am confident it would put some of the 1/10 crawlers to shame. It articulates farther than anything we have built to date but in an ultra-compact size, so it’s a great backpack rig if you wanted something to take on a hike or tackle an extreme indoor crawling course.

The final result of this collaboration between Theron Tate, 3flow9, Hardpark RC, and other visionary RC companies speaks volumes about their creativity and dedication. This build is a testament to the limitless possibilities that exist in the world of RC crawlers. It pushes boundaries, defies expectations, and opens new horizons for what these incredible machines can achieve.

Axial UTB18-ish Capra BUILD SHEET

Chassis
Hardpark RC DXL Chassis and Skid Plate

Driveline
Team Garage Hack Hardened Portal
Team Garage Hack Transmission Gears
Treal Complete Metal UTB18 Portal Axles
Treal 60g Portal Covers
Treal Front Overdrive
MIP UTB18 4mm HD Stub Axles
Fast Eddy UTB18 Bearing Kit

Suspension
3Flow9 RC Delrin Wrapped Suspension Links
3Flow9 RC Battery on Axle-Behind the Servo Mount
3Flow9 RC Roller Bearing Steering Link
Boom Racing 80mm Shocks
Treal Link Riser

Wheels and Tires
Pit Bull 1.9 Berserkers front, 1.9 Rock Beasts rear
Boom Racing Clear and Neo Chrome ProBuild 1.9 wheels

Accessories
KNK Stainless Hardware

Electronics
Furitek UTB18 Lizard Pro ESC
Furitek Komodo Brushless Motor Combo
Reefs RC Raw 400 Low Profile HV Servo
Treal Billet Servo Mount
Gens Ace 800mAh 3S LiPo
Spektrum SlR300 Receiver

FINAL WORD

We’re thrilled to have had the opportunity to collaborate with these exceptional individuals and companies. It’s a testament to the innovation and passion that define the RC community. The Axial UTB18-ish custom build is not just a crawler; it’s a masterpiece that showcases the creative potential of the RC world.

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Text by Leigh Guarnieri
Images by Jerry Tsai