Homemade Buggies

Attach a drive axle assembly to the prebuilt metal frame. Use the nuts, bolts and washers that come with your drive axle to properly attach the axles to the wheels. Take special care to ensure the steering system and drive axle are properly aligned before welding it into place. Reinforce all corners and structurally essential locations to ensure a lasting bond between the metals. This is done by adding pieces of metal to each corner and welding them into place.

Install the steering system and clutch to the drive axle assembly. Your steering system will come with an a-axle assembly to allow proper installation on most vehicles. Use the standard bolts to attach it. Make sure to dip washers in grease before installing them to allow smooth steering.

Install the wheels and tires. You will need to fit the wheels properly to the drive axle. You should choose tires that will allow you to have proper traction in an off-road environment. In the world of dune buggies, bigger and fatter is better when you are choosing tires.

Assemble and install a suspension system. This, combined with your seats, is what will contribute to a comfortable ride in the vehicle. Take the time to choose a suspension system that will accommodate the weight of people riding in your buggy, as well as accommodate the various track imperfections you will encounter while you are driving off-road. Your suspension shocks will attach to each wheel base with nuts and bolts and then to the frame of your body. You may have to drill holes into the buggy frame to properly install the shocks in the right location.

Install seats and seat belts. Whether you choose bucket seats or a bench seat it is important to find seats that properly fit inside the steel frame of your buggy. If you were to roll or have an accident the seats need to protect the people inside. Each seat will have a metal runner underneath that will be used to install the seat to the frame. Be sure to use at least 3 bolts on each runner for the most secure fit. Choose five-point harness style seat belts to ensure that you and your riders will be safe.

Customize your homemade buggy. You can customize the buggy's appearance with vehicle paint. There are no fast and true rules in how to paint a dune buggy, simply let your imagination run wild. Make sure to add a clear coat of vehicle paint over your decorations to protect it from wear.