Somehow, things are just more captivating when downsized, and for many automotive enthusiasts, scale models and remote-control cars offer a perfect side hobby. This fascination reaches new heights when the models are both small and incredibly detailed. One YouTuber has taken this sentiment to the extreme by creating an R/C monster truck that features a genuine gasoline-powered V8, making it one of the coolest builds out there.
The video, created by JohnnyQ90, showcases a miniature V8 engine nestled beneath the plastic shell of a 1:10-scale Chevrolet K10, complete with a stepside truck bed. The “Squarebody” Chevrolet pickup truck sounds even better than it looks, igniting a desire for one of these little machines that rivals the appeal of a full-size Silverado ZR2.
This isn’t the first time JohnnyQ90 has captured our attention with his builds. Previously, the channel featured the construction of a Toyan 28-cubic-centimeter V8, complete with a custom-built clutch and a manually-shifted transmission. For the Squarebody, however, the engine is a Cison 44cc V8, which noticeably protrudes from the hood, a feature enhanced by a custom 3D-printed air scoop reminiscent of classic hot rod pickups.
JohnnyQ90 faced some unique challenges to get the engine to fit the R/C chassis. The original four-shoe centrifugal clutch proved inadequate, so the YouTuber custom-machined a larger clutch bell from a previous 1:5-scale V8 project. The meticulous assembly of the new clutch offers a blend of relaxation and technical marvel, with tons of precision CNC work going into the design. The payoff is a thrilling, little V8 rumble once the truck is fully assembled, allowing for four-wheel-drive donuts and impressive wheelies.
The engine powering this miniature marvel comes from Cison, a manufacturer specializing in functional internal-combustion engines in miniature. The company’s V8 is inspired by the classic Chevrolet small-block engine, featuring a cam-in-block design with pushrods and overhead valves. Unlike other models, this kit utilizes 95-octane gasoline with a single four-barrel carburetor. It also includes a cooling system comprised of an electric fan, radiator, and a remarkably small water pump. Cison even offers the mill with a direct-current electrical system, complete with a belt-driven alternator and voltage regulator.
The YouTube channel details the engine build in an earlier video, which you will find just as captivating as the monster truck project. Fully equipped, the engine costs over $2,000. This suggests that you could theoretically acquire a full-size Chevrolet Squarebody for the price of the miniature V8. Of course, that full-size would likely be pretty, well, used, but that would only allow you to drive with the same enthusiastic abandon as a remote-control truck, fearlessly conquering any obstacles that stand in your way. Ultimately, however, this teensy little powerhouse likely provides more fun than a full-scale truck, and insurance is certainly cheaper on a wrecked R/C!
