[jreuter]

1073 has used an 80/20 chassis for at least 5 years, mostly for the speed of assembly, and ability to add on and adjust brackets & structure as we go. It's great to have on hand to prototpye other mechanisms because you can put something together in a day. Unfortunately we often run out of time, and the heavy prototype sometime remains on the competition robot.

I recommend that you:
- estimate the material list and place an order in December
If you wait until design is finalized, you will waste time waiting for delivery (send me a message if you want to see our typical order list)
- don't forget to ask for discount from your local distributor
- order a variety of fastener types.
3382 single plates
3280 double plates
3376 drop ins (expensive, but worth it so you don't have to disassemble the frame to add a new bracket
3381 butterfly
you don't need to use their machine screws, but it can be convenient
- make sure to get good, clean 90 degree cuts - we use a chop saw with a small diameter metal cutting blade, or do a rough cut with a band saw and face the ends on the mill.
- brace corners and tighten regularly during competitions, or things will slip