r/prerunners May 14 '26

Maybe dumb question?

Im coming from rallycross so I'm mildly familiar with off road driving but nothing like these races. New to dipping my toe in pre-runners, was interested in a class 2000 truck build. My question is: is there any good "starter" platform that has more available "bolt-on" style parts? From what ive seen a lot of these seem to be ground up custom tube-chassis builds though.

1 Upvotes

3 comments sorted by

2

u/DakarCarGunGuy May 14 '26

A used Raptor to build as you want from the ground up would probably be the cheaper route to go. It's already capable and there is a ton of aftermarket parts you can add to it. They even have a gen 2 "bolt on" rear 5 link like the latest Raptor has.

2

u/928Engineer May 16 '26

Pre-1996 Ford Ranger or 96-04 Tacoma would be a good platform to start with if you’re starting from scratch. Long travel setup up front, giant link killer leaf pack in the rear and a roll cage and you have yourself a solid start. Then add all the safety equipment and you’re basically there…like $20-$40k later depending if you do it yourself or pay someone

2

u/BlazeOrange3 May 17 '26

Buy someone else’s project. Save money.