[Tim Skloss]

I totally agree, Ken! Good point.

What you don't see is that we do put on panels around the sides (polycarbonate) and on on the bottom for a skid-plate. The drivetrain is mounted on a thick 1/4" aluminum plate that easily screws to the extrusion using the T nuts. This adds the stiffness you mentioned, although the ITEM extrusion joints don't flex much at all--it's good quality stuff.

All you need to make the plates is a saw to cut the aluminum plate and a drill to make the mounting holes for the motors, gearboxes and speed controllers. Drill more "speed holes" to reduce the weight.

The controls are mounted on a similar panel that goes in and out with four screws. It has been a very easy design to build, maintain and work around in.

Tim