Let’s Try This Again!! – Killerbody Mercury LC70 Review
Improving the Review
I recently took down a video review that I wasn’t satisfied with. I felt that I wasn’t doing justice to myself or to you, my audience. There were a few aspects that I didn’t portray accurately, and after watching other people’s videos where they had gotten things working perfectly, I realized that I might have been doing something wrong. So, I decided to give it another try.
Taking a Closer Look
I took the Killerbody Mercury LC70 apart and carefully analyzed its components. I made some adjustments and got it working better than before. However, it still didn’t meet my expectations. In this review, let’s take a detailed look at this RC truck and discuss its features.
Attention to Detail
If you saw my original video, you might notice that I went a bit over the top with the accessories and additional details. I added some weathering effects to make the truck look more realistic. I wasn’t satisfied with the plain white exterior, and since the hard body didn’t come with an interior, I took matters into my own hands. I improvised and added a couple of things to enhance its appearance on the trail.
An Interior Upgrade
One of my gripes about the Killerbody Mercury LC70 was the lack of an included interior. I believed that a truck of this caliber should have a detailed interior to complete the overall experience. Therefore, I installed a custom interior to make it look more authentic and visually appealing. Not only does it enhance the truck’s aesthetics, but it also adds to the immersive feel when driving it off-road.
Performance Analysis
Now, let’s talk about the performance of the Killerbody Mercury LC70. Despite the improvements I made, it still has its limitations. The truck performs decently on rough terrains, but it struggles a bit on steep slopes. The suspension system works well to absorb shocks, providing a relatively smooth ride. However, it lacks the power to climb more challenging obstacles. Overall, it’s a solid performer, but there is room for improvement.
Body and Chassis
The Killerbody Mercury LC70 is undeniably a stunning scale body. It captures the essence of an older truck with its weathered look and attention to detail. The weathering was a personal touch, nothing too extravagant, just enough to give it a bit of character. While it does not come with an interior, my son and I improvised by creating some foam seats to fill the empty space. The dashboard, however, is included as a standard feature.
The Build
Building this rig was far from a smooth process. Even for someone like me who isn’t an expert builder, the build proved to be an agonizing test of patience. It almost feels as though the RC aspect of the vehicle was an afterthought. It is evident that more effort was put into the aesthetics of the body rather than the build itself. However, once assembled, the chassis does boast several nice scale details.
The Pros and Cons
One of the major pros of the Killerbody Mercury LC70 is undoubtedly its incredibly realistic body. It is one of the most scale bodies you can find, and I would highly recommend pairing it with a different chassis, such as the Jeep Gladiator. On the downside, the build process leaves much to be desired. It is not a build that I would suggest for those lacking in patience or expertise. However, if you can overlook the frustrations of the build, the end result is definitely worth it.
h2: Adding Accessories for the Rear Bed
I wanted to enhance the overall look of my Killerbody Mercury LC70, so I decided to add some accessories to the rear bed. One of the standout features of my LC70 is the driver figure, which I’ve modeled after the iconic character John Wick. This addition certainly adds a touch of personality to the vehicle. However, I must admit that during the building process, I was taken to some dark places, experiencing a sense of perplexity. I couldn’t help but wonder if John Wick might be going off to bury somebody, but hey, that’s part of the thrill, right?
h2: Attention to Detail
To truly bring my LC70 to life, I opted for a few additional accessories. With John Wick behind the wheel, I made sure to include his loyal canine companion in the rear bed. These little touches of detail truly make a difference in the overall aesthetics. The accessories not only add an element of realism, but they also allow me to personalize the LC70 to my liking.
h2: The Marvelous Body
Speaking of personalization, the Killerbody Mercury LC70 body is nothing short of remarkable. Its design and craftsmanship make it a standout in the world of RC trucks. As mentioned before, the kit does not include any electronics or the hard body; those must be purchased separately. However, the body itself is worth the investment. Its flawless scale details, such as the engine, washer bottles, and exhaust, demonstrate the attention to detail that Killerbody brings to their products. The body even has space for a sound unit, allowing for a more immersive experience.
h2: Impressive Kit Highlights
While the kit requires some additional components, it offers several prominent features that RC enthusiasts will appreciate. The two-speed gearbox, for instance, adds an extra layer of excitement to the driving experience. Additionally, the option of switchable rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive further enhances the versatility of the LC70. For those seeking a more advanced driving experience, the locking differentials in the front and rear make tackling difficult terrains a breeze. The preassembled scale axles also contribute to the ease of assembly and ensure that the truck performs flawlessly.
h2: Attaching the Body to the Chassis
One aspect I particularly admire about the LC70 kit is how the body attaches to the chassis. The clever design allows the body to sit snugly over the front fenders and rear section of the chassis. This sturdy attachment ensures that the body stays securely in place, even during challenging off-road adventures. The seamless integration of the body and chassis adds to the overall realism and aesthetic appeal of the LC70.
In conclusion, the Killerbody Mercury LC70 is a top-notch RC truck kit that offers an exceptional building and driving experience. While adding accessories and personal touch to the rear bed certainly enhances its appeal, it’s the meticulously crafted body that steals the show. With impressive features like a two-speed gearbox and switchable drive modes, this kit is designed to deliver hours of immersive fun. So, if you’re looking for an RC truck that combines superb scale details with outstanding performance, the Killerbody Mercury LC70 is definitely worth considering.
The Mounting Points
I actually just use two of the mounting points, so you can basically just pull the body off and off it comes and then what you can see is all along the chassis. You’ve got these different mounting points so whether you’re going to be mounting like the side rails for the Gladiator or whether you’re going to be mounting the body for the LC70 and so on, um so yeah. So I just basically use the two mounting points. Put a screw and a nut on there, and then that holds the body on really, really nicely.
A Surprising Plastic Chassis
A couple of things I mentioned on the unboxing video that you know I wanted to see what it was like when I built it. One of them was the fact that it’s a plastic chassis, um, and it just has these metal strengthening beams in the middle now it’s not as bad as I thought. You know, that’s me twisting it and it’s. You know it’s not twisting that much. So the actual fact that it’s a plastic chassis probably isn’t the end of the world. To be honest, you know, it is better than I thought it was going to be. You know, I still think it should be a metal chassis really because, obviously, that gives you kind of that weight as well and it’s just a bit sturdy and a bit better quality.
The Two-Speed Issue
The main issues I had in my last video was the fact that I couldn’t get the two-speed working.
Breaking it down, what I believe was happening, the servo that’s inside the gearbox that controls the two-speed, I believe that was faulty and actually not engaging the two-speed properly. What I’ve since found since my last video, because I actually built the gearbox properly transferred everything over and actually had a go. What I’ve found is that it was actually the servo, which is supposed to engage the two-speed. The servo itself was faulty, and it wasn’t engaging the two-speed properly at all. So actually, it’s not the actual gearbox, it was the servo, which is a somewhat bit of an issue. So the servo, which is inside the gearbox, wasn’t engaging the two-speed properly.
But luckily, I had a spare servo lying around, so I put that in and tried it today, and you’ll see footage of it working absolutely fine. So it’s definitely the servo that was faulty, not the actual gearbox. So thankfully, it’s a quick fix, it’s a minor issue, but it’s good that we’ve got it resolved.
A Solid Build Quality
When it comes to the overall build quality, the Killerbody Mercury LC70 is surprisingly well-constructed. The body mounting points are secure and sturdy, allowing for a hassle-free detachment of the body. Although I only used two mounting points, they prove to be effective in holding the body firmly in place.
The plastic chassis, despite my initial reservations, holds up quite well. The metal strengthening beams in the middle provide ample support and prevent excessive twisting. While a metal chassis would have added weight and improved overall durability, the plastic chassis does its job adequately.
The Final Verdict
In conclusion, the Killerbody Mercury LC70 impresses with its solid build quality and reliable body mounting points. Though the plastic chassis may
Rear Wheel Drive and Four-Wheel Drive Issues
During my initial attempt, I faced some challenges with getting the rear wheel drive and four-wheel drive lockout to work properly. Despite my best efforts, I couldn’t get the exhaust manifolds to fit correctly, which prevented the exhaust from running down as intended. However, in this revised video, I am pleased to share that I have successfully resolved the issue with the two-speed mechanism. The rear wheel drive and four-wheel drive are now fully operational.
Exhaust Manifold Complications
Unfortunately, my efforts to install the exhaust manifolds proved futile once again. The limited space constraints caused by the servos made it impossible for me to fit them in while maintaining the intended exhaust flow. Regrettably, this remains a work in progress, and I am still unable to get it done.
Chassis Challenges
I encountered some difficulties with the chassis during the construction phase and its inaugural run. The screws that secure the springs and other components were made of plastic and had threading issues. When the screws come undone or back out, the plastic threading is easily ruined, rendering it ineffective. This problem occurred on both sides with the spring perches, compelling me to resort to larger screws for a more secure suspension underneath.
Limiting Straps
On the front of the chassis, there are limiting straps to control the suspension travel. However, they have proven to be less durable than expected. As you can see, one of the limiting straps has already fallen off, and the other one has completely snapped. The end piece, crucial for mounting to the chassis, is now broken. Unfortunately, these straps did not last long under normal usage conditions.
While my experience with the Killerbody Mercury LC70 has been plagued by various setbacks, I remain determined to rectify each issue. Despite the frustrations, I appreciate the opportunity to learn more about the intricacies of this model. With further modifications and problem-solving, I aim to overcome these obstacles and achieve a fully functional and reliable RC truck.
Issue with Wheels and Tool
Assembling the wheels of the Killerbody Mercury LC70 model proved to be quite a frustrating experience. The tool that came with the wheels to fasten the tiny-scale wheel lugs turned out to be ineffective. After attempting to use the tool on six lugs, it rounded off, rendering it useless. This forced me to rely on my trusty pliers to remove the remaining lugs. I managed to salvage the situation by substituting the kit’s screws for the lugs, although it was disappointing to have to settle for screws that didn’t replicate the scale look. On the bright side, at least these screws had a hex head, allowing me to use a driver to screw them in properly.
Recommended Tools for Scale Wheel Lugs
To avoid the same frustration I faced with the scale wheel lugs, I would highly recommend getting a dedicated tool of the correct size to secure them. By investing in a tiny tool specifically designed for this purpose, you can ensure a smooth assembly process without any unfortunate surprises.
Issues with Screws
While some people have reported missing screws in their kits, I was fortunate enough to have all the screws needed for assembly. Each screw was thoughtfully packaged in separate bags, with the instructions clearly indicating which screw to use. However, I did come across an issue where some of the instructed screws were incorrect. This discrepancy particularly affected the installation of the strengthening beam in the middle of the model.
Instructions and Screw Issues
The Killerbody Mercury LC70 comes with instructions that provide suggestions on which screws to use. However, I found that these suggestions were often incorrect, either in terms of length or size. This meant that I had to spend quite some time figuring out the right screws to use instead. It was a bit frustrating to encounter these minor issues with the instructions.
Funky Battery Tray Design
One notable design feature of the Killerbody Mercury LC70 is the battery tray. To access the battery compartment, you simply turn a catch and the tray pops off. However, I must admit that removing the battery tray cover itself proved to be quite challenging. It required some effort to get it off. Additionally, I noticed that the space allocated for the battery was surprisingly small. The tray was shallow and the dimensions were tight. This meant that in order to fit a battery, you really needed to have a super scale one.
Battery Size Consideration
As mentioned earlier, the size of the battery compartment was a bit of a drawback for me. I did not have a battery that was small enough to fit comfortably. To overcome this issue, I ended up adding battery straps on top to secure the battery in place. It was a quick solution that allowed me to use a slightly larger battery. Personally, I did not want to purchase a specialized battery just for this build, as it would have been an unnecessary expense. Therefore, bear in mind that running a super scale battery is essential for optimal performance.
Suspension Challenges
One of the main disappointments with the Killerbody Mercury LC70 is the suspension. The rear suspension relies on leaf springs, while the front suspension consists of simple springs and friction shocks. These friction shocks are basically plastic rods inserted into shiny chrome plastic outer rods. Unfortunately, I found that mine were quite stiff, which affected the overall performance of the suspension system. The rigidity did not allow for smooth and responsive movement.
To conclude, the Killerbody Mercury LC70 has its fair share of issues. The instructions can be misleading when it comes to screws, and the battery tray design requires some effort to work with. Additionally, the limited space for the battery and the need for a super scale battery may pose challenges for some. Lastly, the suspension system, particularly the friction shocks, leaves much to be desired. Despite these drawbacks, the Killerbody Mercury LC70 still offers a unique RC experience for enthusiasts willing to tackle these obstacles.
Issues with Suspension
When it comes to the Killerbody Mercury LC70, one of the first things I noticed was the suspension. To try and improve the movement, I followed the suggestion of rubbing them down a bit and using diff oil for lubrication. However, even with these efforts, I found the suspension to be lacking. The kit does provide two different spring tensions, allowing for a softer or harder spring. But even with the harder spring, the suspension is just not up to par. Especially for a scale rig, it’s disappointing that the movement is bouncy and lacks the smoothness you would expect. This is particularly evident on the rear where I didn’t even attach the rear shocks, as they severely limited the suspension’s movement. The stiffness of the leaf spring further adds to the suspension’s letdown.
Challenges with Building
Aside from the suspension, I encountered several issues when building the Killerbody Mercury LC70. One of the challenges was getting the two-speed and the rear wheel drive/lockout to work properly. It took me quite some time to figure out the correct setup for these features. Additionally, I initially used two track servos, but they burned out over time. I ended up replacing them with two 7-kilogram steering servos, but even with these, the operation is not as smooth as I had hoped.
The Dilemma of Performance
Given the suspension and building challenges, it’s hard not to feel a bit perplexed. The Killerbody Mercury LC70 seems to fall short in terms of performance, especially for a scale rig. While it has some features like the two-speed and rear wheel drive/lockout, they don’t function as seamlessly as desired. The lack of smooth movement in the suspension further hampers its performance. It raises the question of whether this kit truly lives up to its potential.
The Setup
I’ve got my transmitters set up in a way that allows me to have proportional control over the servo. This means that I can choose how much the servo turns, giving me more flexibility. However, I have to admit that this setup is not working very well. I’ll show you why in a moment.
The Locking Differentials
I didn’t bother setting up the rear servo for the locking differentials because to be honest, I wasn’t planning on using them anyway. Instead, I added a zip tie to the locking differential arm to permanently lock it in place. This way, the differential is always locked and I don’t have to worry about it.
The Building Process
The kit that I received from Killerbody was a pre-production kit, so it didn’t come with any instructions. I had to download a PDF from Asia’s website to get the instructions. Most of the instructions were okay, but the building process itself was quite tedious. There were several issues with screws and other parts, making the build less enjoyable. If given the choice, I wouldn’t build it again. I wouldn’t mind doing the hard body again, but not the chassis.
The Front Setup
For the front setup, I decided to go with a shorty steering servo so that I could mount the receiver on top. The instructions suggested using a shorty servo, so I followed their recommendation. I purchased a cheap servo from Amazon and it works fine. Additionally, I opted for a hobbywing Fusion SE motor. Initially, I considered using a 540 can motor to run all the pulleys up front, but I didn’t see the point. They didn’t add any functionality or rotations to the vehicle.
And that concludes my experience with the Killerbody Mercury LC70. Overall, the setup has its flaws and the building process had its challenges. However, with some modifications and adjustments, the truck performs decently. It may not be the perfect option out there, but it can still be a fun and enjoyable RC truck to have.
The Chassis and Electronics
The Killerbody Mercury LC70 certainly catches the eye with its impressive hard body. However, it should be noted that this stunning feature is merely for show and will not be seen once the hard body is in place. Moving on to the chassis itself, it is important to highlight that it does not come with any electronics. This means that you will need to supply your own electronic components, including at least a five channel transmitter and servos.
An Issue of Noise
Upon initial inspection, one problem that stood out was the loudness of this LC70. However, after seeking advice from Adam at cap crawlers, I discovered that his LC70 was a lot quieter. Intrigued, I decided to experiment with the mesh and was able to reduce the noise level to some extent. Although it is still not perfect, the difference is notable. Despite this minor setback, the noise level is tolerable and should not be a major concern.
Drivetrain Functionality
The LC70 offers different driving modes, including rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive. The bottom servo located on the chassis allows for these changes in drive configuration. By simply toggling the servo, you can switch between rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive. Additionally, the LC70 boasts a two-speed transmission, providing versatility in terms of speed. However, it is worth mentioning that I have encountered some difficulties with getting the two-speed and rear-wheel drive functions to work smoothly. Despite my efforts, the 7k steering servo seems to be malfunctioning, creating frustration and perplexity.
Intermittent issues with various functionalities can be quite perplexing, especially after investing a considerable amount of time in setting up the LC70. The challenges with the steering servo are particularly frustrating, as it affects the rear-wheel drive and two-speed transmission features. It is unclear why these issues have arisen, but it is essential to troubleshoot and rectify them to fully enjoy the capabilities of the LC70.
In the end, the Killerbody Mercury LC70 presents a visually appealing hard body and offers the potential for an exciting driving experience. However, it is important to note that the chassis does not come with electronics, requiring you to supply your own. Additionally, the noise level may require some adjustment, but it is manageable. Despite the setbacks with the steering servo and drivetrain functionality, there is still hope that these issues can be resolved.
Let’s Try This Again!! – Killerbody Mercury LC70 Review
Issues Galore
The Killerbody Mercury LC70 presents a number of challenges right off the bat. From the moment I attempted to shift from second gear to first gear, it became apparent that something was not right. The transition feels clunky and awkward, leaving me puzzled as to why it is so difficult.
Steering Servo Struggles
To add to my frustration, I have already gone through two steering servos while trying to figure out the speed capabilities of this vehicle. It boggles the mind that something as simple as getting the speed to work properly can result in destroying a 7-kilogram servo. This issue, coupled with the struggles of the poor soul in the background attempting to assemble this chassis, has left me feeling defeated and despondent.
Formidable Aesthetics
Despite its performance shortcomings, the Killerbody Mercury LC70 does offer some redeeming qualities. Its hard body appearance is undeniably impressive and would make any enthusiast weak in the knees. If I were to evaluate this product solely based on its looks, I would have nothing but praise for Killerbody. The attention to detail, such as the scale engine and gearbox, and the realistic axles and wheels, all contribute to a visually stunning model.
Lacking Performance
Unfortunately, performance-wise, the Killerbody Mercury LC70 falls short. Its suspension is virtually non-existent, rendering it ineffective and limiting its capabilities on various terrains. Even as I attempt to demonstrate its functionality on a bench, I encounter issues with the two-speed feature. The engagement is sluggish, despite the 7-kilogram steering servo I installed. Such numerous issues leave much to be desired.
Disappointing Performance and Price
When it comes to scale rate to runs or other kits, the Killerbody Mercury LC70 falls short in terms of price and performance. It’s a shame because, as mentioned in my previous video, I had high hopes for this model. The potential seemed enormous, but unfortunately, it turned out to be a letdown.
Despite being grateful to Killerbody for providing me with the kit, I must admit that it didn’t live up to my expectations. As someone who is not an expert scale builder, I am open to any tips or advice on how to make the most out of this kit. Feel free to drop me a comment below.
A Lot of Hard Work, Minimal Reward
While I enjoy trying new things and experimenting with different kits, I have come to realize that this particular model requires a significant amount of effort for little reward. It’s disheartening to invest time and energy into a project that doesn’t deliver the desired outcome. Despite having its strengths, the Mercury LC70 falls short in terms of overall satisfaction.
Running Footage on the Trail
Now, let’s move on to the running footage so that you can see how the Mercury LC70 performs on the trails. This is where the true test lies – can it redeem itself with impressive performance? Watch the video to find out and draw your own conclusions.
Thank you for watching again, and if you had the chance to watch the first video, I would appreciate your comments and feedback. Let me know your thoughts and whether you had a similar experience with this particular kit.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Killerbody Mercury LC70 is a visually appealing RC truck with great attention to detail. Though it has certain limitations in performance, with some modifications and upgrades, it can be an excellent addition to any RC enthusiasts’ collection. If you’re willing to put in the extra effort to enhance its capabilities, this truck can provide hours of off-road fun.
In conclusion, the Killerbody Mercury LC70 is a visually stunning scale body that exudes the charm of an older truck. The attention to detail is commendable, and with a little weathering, it becomes even more authentic. However, the build process can be quite painful, testing the patience of even experienced builders. Despite its flaws in the build, the end result is undeniably impressive. Without a doubt, this scale body is a worthy addition to any RC enthusiast’s collection.
Despite the initial setbacks with the wheels and screws, the Killerbody Mercury LC70 model overall offers great potential. It is essential to have the right tools and be prepared to make small adjustments during assembly. While there may be some minor hiccups along the way, the end result is a stunning replica of the LC70 that will surely impress any scale model enthusiast.
In conclusion, the Killerbody Mercury LC70 has left me with mixed feelings. It’s evident that the suspension is one of the main drawbacks, lacking the scale movement and smoothness expected from a rig of this caliber. The building process also presented its own set of challenges, particularly with the two-speed and rear wheel drive/lockout mechanisms. While the kit offers potential with its features, the execution falls short. As an enthusiast looking for an exceptional scale rig, it’s disappointing to encounter these issues. The Killerbody Mercury LC70 has the framework for greatness, but it ultimately falls flat in delivering a truly remarkable experience.
In summary, if we disregard my ramblings and frustrations, the Killerbody Mercury LC70 is an outstanding choice for those seeking a visually appealing hard body. Killerbody has clearly excelled in creating a masterpiece in terms of design and detailing. However, its performance leaves much to be desired, especially with regards to suspension and overall functionality. Despite its flaws, I must admit, I would still consider purchasing another hard body from Killerbody due to their reputation for producing some of the best hard bodies in the market.
