My team is in its second year, and we want to make our own west coast drive this year. Unfortunately, the WCP SS Gearbox for west coast drive is sold out. Is there a way to use a toughbox mini, which we already have? Or is there an alternative gearbox we could use for WCD?
You can always adjust the base kit standoffs for the WCP SS (which is still in stock) by making your own (3d print, buy longer ones from any hardware store and cut to length, etc). Toughbox minis would work too, but they’re a little finnicky to adjust the mounting for a live axle setup. Outside of those, there’s also the 2CIM VexPro Ballshifter, which can also be adjusted like the WCP SS (the 3CIM variety seems to be out of stock).
Best of luck!
The specific layout of a “WCD” chassis is up to debate. If you want a 6-wheel, drop center, drive system
You don’t have to use a WCP gearbox for “West Coast Drive”. West coast drive refers to a 6 or 8 wheel drop center drive, with one wheel directly connected to the output shaft. The wheels are also cantilevered. You can absolutely use a TB mini as a WCD gearbox.
It’s possible but not really convenient to use a toughbox mini there. In my opinion you’re probably better off if you use the KOP chassis and alter it to suit your team’s needs. Save the new drive base for the offseason when you have more time to tinker. There’s some easy alterations that can be made to the KOP base like changing the toughbox gearing that can be pretty useful without a lot of time commitment.
http://files.andymark.com/PDFs/AM14U3_UserGuide_2018withBumpers.pdf