The 7806 Looks like a great Idea, I have also looked into the LM7808 as well as some adjustable voltage regulator ICs. The only problem is how much current do these regulators waste? I really dont know except thats some are considered low drop out and some have other current saving features (but not the 7806). Here is a wiring diagram in jpg format that might shead some more light on what im trying to do, please keep in mind this thing must have both the right and left tread motors on at the same time to go straight. S1,S,S3, and S4 are the servos for right tread, left tread, pivot, and griping arm respectively.