Body Posts

Sometimes it's necessary to install a different set of body posts, either to raise the body some or because the stock ones are in the wrong location for the body you wish to use. It's easy to add another set of body posts while leaving the stock ones intact. This makes it very easy to revert your Stampede back to where it will accept the stock body once again.

First you will need screw on body posts. I recommend some similar to the HPI 8-32 Swivel Body Posts. I mention these because they use a hex wrench which makes it easier to install and remove as you will see later. The swivel on these posts also works well when the body hole is at a angle on the body, such as the back glass of the Mustang body that my son used. You may notice that the posts used in the examples below still use the hex head screw, but they are not the HPI swivel posts. Other than that, everything else about them is the same.

You'll need to drill holes in the existing body mounts. Depending on what body you are mounting you may only need to do this on the front or back mount. In the front I usually mount the posts right beside the stock ones. In the back I pick the large "corner area", about halfway between the stock post and the middle of the mount. Use a drill bit the same size, or slightly larger, than the screw. Then put the screw in from the bottom as in the following pictures.

This is where using a body post kit with hex head screws comes in handy. Use the hex wrench to hold the screw and prevent it from turning. Then twist the body post on. Repeat for the other body posts you need to install. You'll notice what a breeze it is to screw them on and take them off if you need to later. It may actually take you longer to find your hex wrench in your toolbox.

When you're finished your body mounts should look similar to the picture of my front mount. The screw on body posts are adjustible, so you'll have to set the height where you want it. Once doing that you'll be good to go.

When I need posts, I buy some longer than what I need. I can always cut them down and round the tops of the posts back up after I set the height exactly where I want it. However if you get a post that's too short, there's not anything you're going to be able to do about it. I also recommend that you run the body a few times before cutting the posts down. In the cases of some bodies you may find that while you thought you had enough clearance, you make a jump or two and find out you don't.

A reader also sent me a picture showing the use of a rear body mounting assembly off of a Maxx truck. It's easily fitted to the rear shock tower of the Stampede, as it's a direct fit. You can use the Maxx posts on the front of the Stampede as well, but some additional customizing is required as it's not a direct fit.