Building the Apex Chassis for the SCX24: A Step-by-Step Guide
The SCX24 has no shortage of aftermarket support, but few chassis generate as much anticipation as the Northwest Chassis Works Apex. Its forward skid and 20-degree angled skid plate change the way this platform handles breakover clearance, making it far less likely to hang up on obstacles. For anyone who takes micro crawling seriously, that is a game-changing advantage.
Foundation: Apex Chassis and Forward Skid
The Apex is defined by its forward skid design. By pushing the skid ahead and angling it, the chassis gains real clearance benefits that immediately show up on the trail. For this build, the choice of a Delrin skid plate was intentional. Delrin slides cleanly over rock surfaces, resists wear, and adds to the Apex’s natural strength where contact is inevitable.
Components and Upgrades
Every major component on this build was chosen for performance and durability. Carbon fiber rails and an electronics plate provide rigidity without unnecessary weight. Suspension duty is handled by Proline Big Bore shocks filled with 80-weight oil, a combination that produces stable, controlled damping. For axles, Little Guy Racing’s Super Eight units add reinforcement where stock parts tend to fail, while Hot Racing’s oversized brass knuckles bring both strength and critical forward weight bias.
The Cascade motor mount deserves special mention. By flipping the motor orientation, it raises the rear driveline and shifts weight distribution forward. The benefits are clear: improved clearance and a crawler that stays planted on steep climbs instead of tipping back.
Suspension and Hardware Setup
Suspension geometry can make or break a crawler, and the Apex rewards careful setup. Offset rod ends and bent links help avoid interference with wider axles. Mounting the rear upper links outboard allows maximum droop and articulation, while spreading the front with offset ends improves geometry and steering clearance. Hardware selection is deliberate too, with link and shock screws matched precisely to prevent binding. The result is suspension travel that feels fluid instead of forced.
Wheels, Tires, and Accessories
Traction and weight balance complete the package. Forged RC wheels paired with J Concepts Boss Man tires provide dependable grip across surfaces. Scale details such as fuel cells and radiators bring more than looks — they double as chassis braces, improving stiffness and durability while keeping the build realistic. These details turn accessories into performance assets.
Clean Assembly and Cable Management
Electronics can undo even the most careful build if ignored. A clean routing plan ensures wires do not interfere with suspension movement, while also improving reliability. In this case, the electronics were tucked neatly into a 3D-printed hard case, creating a protected and professional finish that matches the rest of the build.
Final Verdict
The Apex chassis shows what happens when thoughtful design is matched with premium components and careful assembly. Its forward skid and Cascade motor mount redefine clearance and driveline efficiency. Dialed suspension geometry, reinforced axles, and functional accessories elevate the SCX24 well beyond stock form.
This is not just another aftermarket chassis. Built correctly, the Apex turns the SCX24 into a crawler that performs with confidence on technical terrain and sets a new benchmark for what a micro rig can deliver.
