Hartman's Modified Sidewinder Dune Buggy

This web site is dedicated to the making of my custom dune buggy as a take-off  from plans developed by an Australian company called "The Edge".  The purpose of the web site is to provide an example of a real life fabrication with several modifications from which you can get some ideas.  Their plans can be purchased through the following web site: http://www.git.com.au/~theedge/    I bought the base plans for a buggy called the Sidewinder but after reviewing them, I decided that I wanted to build a less complicated rear suspension and drive train.  This was easily accomplished by simplifying the rear swing arm and mounting the motor onto it rather than hanging the engine off the side of the buggy which now gives it that sleeker Piranha look I was after.  Unfortunately, there are no buggy plans that fall between the Taipan (without suspension) and the Sidewinder or Piranha so I came up with my own version.  Perhaps, I should name this buggy the Taiwinder as a cross between the Taipan and the Sidewinder.  Please do not ask for plans through me since you must purchase them from The Edge and then use any of my modifications or build ideas if they are of interest to you.  Their plans are very complete and detailed.

Many of the old boys school "Sidewinder purists" suggest that the engine of choice for this buggy should be a fire breathing, multi cylinder motorcycle power plant that is typically used.  My purpose for scaling the engine back however, was to "think outside the box" and build a very sharp looking buggy with a less complicated drive system with lots of low end power and instant variable torque for rugged bush trail riding that I prefer.  Top speed was not my main interest and the large industrial engine provides lots of power and about 45 mph top end.  These buggy plan modifications would also work very well for someone wishing to add front suspension and a rear swing arm on the Taipan buggy design.

If you wish further information on any aspects of my buggy build project or want to provide comments, please contact me at hpokrant@mts.net  I also have an extensive web site dedicated to restoration of Dodge Dart Swinger muscle cars.  Visit that site at: http://www.mts.net/~hpokrant/  I live in Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada where there are hundreds of kilometers of bush trail riding available.

Last updated: 8/4/05 11:06 PM

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