Inside KibbeTech: Building High-Performance Pre-Runners and Trophy Trucks

October 12, 2024

Pre-Runner and Trophy Truck Builds: Behind the Scenes

The latest project at KibbeTech delves into the intricate process of building high-performance pre-runners and trophy trucks. With a focus on precision and attention to detail, the team provides a detailed look at their current projects, highlighting the complexity and craftsmanship involved. This article explores the ongoing work on Dan’s pre-runner and a trophy truck build, emphasizing the engineering and customization that go into these impressive vehicles.

A workshop with partially assembled off-road vehicles, including a truck frame with large tires and visible suspension. Several people are working on vehicles, with tools and equipment visible around the space. Wall signs for automotive brands are displayed above.
A close-up view of an off-road vehicle's rear suspension and tire, featuring large treaded tires and visible brake components. A spare tire is strapped nearby.

Progress on Dan’s PreRunner

Chassis and Assembly

A white off-road vehicle with large tires and gold rims is elevated on a stand in a garage. A man in a black shirt and red shoes is working near the front of the vehicle. A section of the garage is visible with industrial equipment and a white component against the wall.
A person standing in a workshop handling metal automotive parts on a table, with red tool cabinets and various tools and equipment in the background.
A metal component assembly featuring a cylindrical shaft secured by a series of nuts with twisted wire between them on a black base.

Dan’s pre-runner has returned from powder coating, painting, and Linex treatment. The initial assembly is underway, with the team focusing on fitting bulky components into the chassis. The fuel cell, now powder-coated black, securely sits within the frame, accompanied by anodized billet hold-downs. These elements not only enhance durability but also offer protection against fading. Additionally, the hardware has been upgraded to stainless ARP bolts, providing an aesthetic and functional upgrade.

A person wearing a hat and hoodie stands next to an unfinished vehicle frame in a workshop with various tools and equipment in the background. An American flag is hung on the wall.

Parts Preparation and Anodizing

Interior of a vehicle showing a roll cage and metal panels in a workshop setting with shelves and equipment in the background.
Modified off-road vehicle with large tires and exposed suspension inside a garage, a person inside the vehicle, and another person standing near the open garage door.
Racing fuel cell with two fuel fill ports and numerous bolts, featuring one large blue cap, two large red caps, and a smaller red cap, installed in a metal-framed vehicle compartment.

The team at KibbeTech is meticulous in their approach, preparing a range of parts for installation. Rear trailing arms, upper links, and hubs are assembled and prepped, showcasing the use of high-quality components like stainless inserts for shock bolts. This attention extends to the anodizing process, where exposed aluminum parts undergo hard anodizing to ensure longevity and resistance to wear. Such strategic upgrades reflect the commitment to quality and performance.

Suspension and Engine Specifications

A man wearing a cap and hoodie stands next to a large industrial structure with a metal frame and black panels in a workshop.
A car chassis with a roll cage frame in a garage or workshop setting, surrounded by metal beams and tools.
A person wearing a black hoodie and camo cap stands next to a workbench with gold-colored suspension components and several vehicle brake discs. A red tool chest and a fan are in the background.

The suspension system for Dan’s pre-runner is carefully curated, featuring ProAm hubs and substantial bearings. The rear end utilizes a 36 Pline axle, polished for durability. The engine, a Redline LSX 454, is coupled with an ID Designs accessory drive, promising robust performance. Additional enhancements, such as a billet water pump and power steering solutions, further optimize the vehicle’s capabilities. These components together ensure the pre-runner is ready for high-speed desert adventures.

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Trophy Truck Build: A Closer Look

A person wearing a hat and black hoodie is working on an engine mounted on a stand in a workshop. The person is holding a package of ARP bolts and is surrounded by various tools and parts, including a red tool chest and a lineup of metallic components on a table. A fire extinguisher is mounted on the wall nearby.
A person holds a package of ARP automotive fasteners next to an engine on a stand in a workshop. Various tools and supplies are visible in the background.
A person wearing a cap and hoodie is standing next to an automotive engine mounted on a red engine stand in a workshop, with a red tool chest and various tools in the background.
A person wearing a cap and a hoodie is in a workshop with red tool cabinets in the background, examining a large metal automotive part on a table covered with various automotive components, including suspension parts, bearings, and brackets.

Design and Layout

The trophy truck build embodies the pinnacle of off-road racing engineering. With a track width of 93 inches and a wheelbase of 125 inches, this truck is designed for speed and stability. It houses a powerful big block Chevy engine from Danzio, producing 975 horsepower. The Turbo 400 transmission and underdrive system ensure efficient power delivery, while the King shocks provide superior suspension performance across rugged terrains.

Shared Components and Customization

Interestingly, the trophy truck shares several components with Dan’s pre-runner, such as the bulkhead and trailing arms. This modular approach allows for interchangeable parts between pre-runners and race trucks, facilitating easier maintenance and upgrades. The truck is equipped with Triumph Performance’s M-Spec wiring, integrating advanced electronics, such as a Life Racing ECU and MOTEC PDMS for optimal control and performance monitoring.

Innovative Features

A man wearing a hat and a hoodie stands behind a table with various metal automotive parts in a workshop. Red tool cabinets with tools and equipment are in the background.
A white off-road vehicle is undergoing construction in a garage. A person is working on the vehicle standing on a stepstool, while others are in the background. The vehicle is lifted on jacks with visible suspension components. There are tools, equipment, and an American flag in the garage.
Man standing in a workshop with automotive parts on a workbench, including metallic rods and suspension components; red tool cabinets and various tools are visible in the background.

The trophy truck stands out with its advanced cooling system and fuel capacity. A custom-designed CBR cooling package ensures efficient heat management, critical for prolonged high-speed runs. The fuel cell, boasting a capacity of approximately 105 gallons, is equipped with dual dry brakes, enhancing safety and reliability. These features underscore KibbeTech’s commitment to building vehicles that excel in both performance and endurance.

Engineering and Technological Advancements

Billet Components and Anodizing

The use of billet components throughout these builds highlights a trend towards precision engineering and customization. Billet aluminum parts are stronger and offer more design flexibility compared to cast or forged counterparts. Anodizing these components not only protects them from environmental factors but also allows for aesthetic customization, aligning with owner preferences.

Integration of Advanced Electronics

The image shows a detailed view of a vehicle's rear suspension system, featuring coil springs, shock absorbers, and a reinforced frame with visible tires and metal components.
Black metal suspension components on a carpeted surface surrounded by various automotive parts including a gold-colored piece and cylindrical metal parts.

The integration of advanced electronics systems, such as ECUs and PDMS, reflects the growing importance of technology in off-road racing. These systems provide real-time data and control, enabling precise tuning and performance optimization. As racing conditions become more competitive, such technological advancements become crucial in gaining an edge over competitors.

In summary, KibbeTech’s commitment to excellence is evident in their latest projects. The combination of cutting-edge technology, high-quality materials, and meticulous craftsmanship defines their approach to building pre-runners and trophy trucks. As these vehicles continue to evolve, they not only embody the thrill of racing but also showcase the innovative spirit of modern engineering. Stay tuned for future updates as these impressive machines come to life, ready to conquer the toughest terrains and push the boundaries of performance.

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