In recent years, the "West Coast Drive" (WCD) has exploded in popularity among FIRST ® Robotics Competition teams. With their cantilevered wheels and direct-driven axles, teams using this iconic drivetrain style have risen to the top of the competition with remarkable success; however, the precision machining capabilities necessary can cause reluctance among some teams.

VEXpro and West Coast Products (WCP) have teamed up to solve this problem. The VersaBlock V2 easily bolts on to the outside of the pre-drilled VersaChassis tubing - no precision machining needed to achieve a precision aligned drivetrain. The VersaBlock V2 also allows for an 96 tooth, 20 DP gear spacing. This makes it easy for you to create gear reductions without needing complex machining operations. As an added bonus, you can use the VersaBlock V2 with the Plastic Clamping Gearbox to create simple and modular CIM and Mini CIM gearboxes inline with 1” x 2” tubing.

For users who prefer the traditional “milled slot” approach, the 2-piece WCP Side Bearing Block provides a lightweight and compact solution. The 1-piece WCP Gearbox Bearing Block is a similar version, intended to be used directly with WCP WCD-configured gearboxes.

When paired with the WCP Cam to ensure proper tensioning, all teams now have access to a complete, high-performance, "West Coast"-style Drive.

The VersaBlock Mini is a smaller version of the VersaBlock V2 Kit. The VersaBlock Mini uses ⅞” OD bearings, and clamps around a 1” x 1” VersaChassis tube. You can also use the VersaBlock Mini in tandem with our 1" x 1" plastic VersaFrame tubing. This means that if you’re an FTC team, you can use these to make your drivetrains even smaller and lighter!