Thunder Tiger EK4

[Orionator]

Originally posted by UP2NOGD
Don't use that 5%!!!! --It seems that everyone is liking the 20% Nitro with at least 18% oil - "Blue Thunder' works well!! I know your manual probably says use 5% max - but it is wrong!! That manual was suppose to go to the UK only -- oh by the way don't be to alarmed if you drop a motor -- if your manual states use 5% at break in --you probably will!! TTR released the first batch of these things with more than a few engine probs!! -- It will either run or die! Good luck -- I was pretty down on TTR at first but when these things start running --- Look OUT!! -- It would be worth your time to review this thread from start to finish -- loads of good info. --it has helped everyone - new and old alike!!

Good Luck!
Johnny

Thanks man, I have been followig the thread, and learning a lott !!! So you reckon 20% for running in as well ? I have 10% heli full from dynaglow. It does not say how much oil. Would that do the trick ?:rolleyes:

[UP2NOGD]

I went from 10% to 30% Heli -- I was overheating as well? The 30% Heli helped but still would heat up during hard runs! I talked to TTR and they said anything between 20 -30% is fine. You may want to try the 20% and also think about the new head now available www.autohausrc.com or wait on the TTR head??
Hope this helps!

Johnny

[RCCARTMAN]

maxxhead... Are they MP tires on the Ek4 rims? What rims?

[MaxxHead]

RCCARTMAN, Yep those are MP tires on the stock EK4 rims.

[vsnakebytev]

i have a t-maxx with the new era twin .21 kit there's 60mph. i also have the wider clodbuster/ usa 1 tires on it. the 3 speed tranny. the right gear ratio! a wicked cool body, all titanium parts!

:eek: wow i think i've done it:cool:

[hooligan]

Originally posted by vsnakebytev
i have a t-maxx with the new era twin .21 kit there's 60mph. i also have the wider clodbuster/ usa 1 tires on it. the 3 speed tranny. the right gear ratio! a wicked cool body, all titanium parts!

:eek: wow i think i've done it:cool:

tell me what this has to do with the ttr ek4 :confused:

[NitroOwnsYou]

I think he is saying that he spent $1500 more on his Tmaxx to try to get the same amount of thrills as the EK-4 gives you outta the box at $500. LOL I think when Im spending more than a grand on a rc car Ill play russian roulette with my glock! :D

[RCCARTMAN]

TMAXX RIP:D

[PITSTAIN RC]

http://www.network-techniques.com/pitstain/images/ek4/DSC00058.JPG http://www.network-techniques.com/pitstain/images/ek4/DSC00057.JPG http://www.network-techniques.com/pitstain/images/ek4/DSC00066.JPG

[hooligan]

i just LOVE the way the HUGE cooling head pops out of the body :D :D i will get one as soon as the upgraded starters are available too so i can spend the extra shippingcosts which i would have dad otherwise on FUEL!

[wipeout]

Does anyone know the oil content on Blue Thunder fuel?

[RCCARTMAN]

I took a whack at mmaking my own hop ups today. Let me know what U all think.

[RCCARTMAN]

the front

[RCCARTMAN]

sorry about the blurriness

[Orionator]

Originally posted by RCCARTMAN
the front


Looks vey nice. Where did you get those parts to strengthen the truck ??

Looks like yours has had some running. Can I ask you some quick questions ? What fuel are you running. Heli or car/ what nitro and oil. Mine still running in, but very hot, and can get it to run stationary. Thanks

[RCCARTMAN]

Orionator I made my own parts. I am currently running 15% nitro, 18% oil heli fuel. Run very rich until the break in is over. Good Luck

[RB Maxx]

I have done a fan mod. that really works great.

[RCCARTMAN]

I was considering the fan option also, until I got my MJS head. Now I have no need for one until summer, if then.

[hooligan]

nice idea, but if you want it to work right you either have to turn your cooling head 90 degrees or place the fan in front of the engine.
now you only cool the side of the engine, what you really want to do is remove the hot air in between the cooling ribs by cold air.
you need flow in line with the cooling ribs, not on the side.

it will work much better then.
:D

[RCCARTMAN]

RB MAXX did U run the truck yet? It's so clean... WHY? just kidding. Come on you and Pistan RC are making me look bad. My truck is dirty and your trucks look as if you just took them out of the box and put some hop up on them. What's your secret? I guess I shouldn't run my truck where the mud is like clay, huh? It took me 2 hours to get all of the mud off of my full size truck, let alone my RC. HAHA:D

[hooligan]

dirt = more fun :D

[RCCARTMAN]

Hey guys can we get a list started of the AFTERMARKET PARTS DISTRIBUTORS FOR THUNDER TIGER PRODUCTS? If you know of any, let us know. I want some good knuckles and suspension arms, either high quality aluminum or titanium, to keep my truck bruising others.

[Rosstapirate]

Well add another .70 to the graveyard!!! Just got my new MSJ head! Put it on got thruogh half a tank and it just stopped!!! Took off head and it looked just like Midmadn's pictures!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Oh well guess I'll start calling T.T. on Monday!!!!http://www.faxonwell.com/images/piston.jpg :mad: :mad: OH YEA I WAS RUNNING AT 168 AND IT WAS GREAT!!!!!!!!!

[midmadn]

Wow,

That looks exactly like mine. ;)

Jack

[BigDaddy550]

Rosstapirate> Did you have one of the trucks with the manual that said to use 5% max? Thanks I am trying to make sure no one with a good one is having problems. Thanks

RC

[RB Maxx]

Hey RCCARTMAN
I have just started to breake in the engine and there is no mud where i live only snow and deam cold :)

Originally posted by RCCARTMAN
RB MAXX did U run the truck yet? It's so clean... WHY? just kidding. Come on you and Pistan RC are making me look bad. My truck is dirty and your trucks look as if you just took them out of the box and put some hop up on them. What's your secret? I guess I shouldn't run my truck where the mud is like clay, huh? It took me 2 hours to get all of the mud off of my full size truck, let alone my RC. HAHA:D

[muswagon]

Why dont all of you read the post again, its is obvious that he states he is using Midmadn's pic. Lighten up:D

I talked to Brandon at Ace about my bunk starter shaft that wrecked the connecting rod, no problemo he said, so I am sending it on Monday. What kind of turnaround time should I expect on warranty work?

[midmadn]

Rosstapirate,

You shot yourself in the foot with this post you put on the RCMT Monster Pirate Forum.

"Rosstapirate,

Hello guys! I got my EK-4 about 3 weeks ago. Had lot of tuning and small bugs to work out . As of today and after running a gallon of heli fuel and fighting heat problems, I tired Blue Thunder 20% nitro! CAR FUEL! Blue Thunder has been my chouses with the hyper after trying 5 or 6 different fuels! I live in Denver so altitude is always slowing any gas engine, just not as much air here! Ran 5 tanks and returned for the new fuel! The engine ran 250 all day long with more power then anything R\C I have sean! From a dead stop it rips the front end right off the ground! I will never give up my M.P. but I NEED aluminum BULKHEADS! C-4{on the way** and my M.P. will be unreal! I don't know guys? C-4 or not the Ek-4 is going to be very hard to beat! My R B C-4 will be here next week! I would like it if my Pirate will pull the front up like my EK-4 and hole shot as hard!!! Just thought I would let you guys know that not all the EK-4's are P.O.S.!!!!! Thanks Rosstaman "

If I had said that last statement, my EK4 would have caught on fire and burned, only after running into the side of a Ferrari and bouncing off of that onto the hood of a Police Cruiser, breaking the Windshield and hitting the Cop in the face. :(

Jack

P.S. Sorry to hear you are added to the list of TTR defects.

[RCCARTMAN]

hey midmadn and rosstapirate, what fuels were u running?, how far into the break in did this happen?, What temps were you running at? I know one thing if my engine does that TTR is gonna next day air mine. This is rediculous. So many problems out of the gate. TOO many problems out of the gate. I am glad that mine has only given me minor problems thus far. ... What was that sound? OH NO I spoke too soon. :) It seems like a curse... everytime I mention how lucky I've been something goes wrong... lets hope the truck doesn't know i am talking about it. "Woops it heard me... (whisper) I gotta go, it's coming!!! No :eek: :eek:

[Rosstapirate]

I did'nt have a camera right next to me and IT"S THE SAME THING! But here you go!http://communities.msn.com/RCDirtTrackDenver/bigek4.msnw?action=ShowPhoto&PhotoID=55 Oh yea! Thanks for rubbing salt into it! I started running Heli fuel 15% nitro and 22% oil. It ran hot! then went to Blue Thunder 20% after 3\4 gallon and the temp droped to 230 to 245. Then got the new MSJ head ran very nice cooool 180 to 190 at the same rich settings! YES I DID PUT MY FOOT right in my moulth! ALL size 15 of it!!! I will be posting to all at RCMT!! I am not some kid!!! I am 27 have buldt a custom Harley with 120 H.P. and 163 F.P.T. on a dino! Many hot rod V-8's CHEVY,FORD,MOPAR! I have many R\C's and will be opening a indoor nitro dirt track in Denver this spring! I am a nice guy and like to do things for anyone!! There is no reason to to start s***! So don't !!! We are all friends here!! It's a HOBBY!! FUN! There are so many people in R\C that have no idea about all the info we get and give to each other on the web! Rossta

[midmadn]

Rossta,

I was clearly just trying to be funny when I posted - (hey that looks just like my Engine. ;) ) Thats what the wink ;) was for.

I wasn't trying to rub salt in the wound. I was just pointing out what would have happened if I had a good running one and said that - (Not all EK4's are P.O.S.)

I am being sincere when I say, I feel really bad that you had to have this problem and join the list. Hope everything works out in the end for all of us.

Your Piston looks just as new and well lubed as mine did.

I'm really curious, is the Line Up Pin for the Ring M.I.A.? I can't tell from the pic. It looks like your Piston broke in the front, just to the left of where the Line Up Pin should be.

Everybody who is saying this is happening due to inexperience, wrong fuel or not being broken in correctly can go F' themselves. Thats B.S. This is clearly a design fault or defective parts/machining. If they all looked like jhnblyz's then I would tend to agree with the possibillity that it was the people and not the Engine. Their is something wrong with this Engine.

Jack

[RCCARTMAN]

Rossta do U use a temp gun or gauge? What was the temp with the MJS head? 168... or 180-190 In mine the head temp at the plug dropped very low, but at the crankcase it was about 70 degrees hotter. Get where I am going

[RCCARTMAN]

what happens to an engine when there is a drastic temp difference in two areas of the stroke? Since this is a ringed engine, does the metal expand? Just trying to come to a conclusion as to why mine hasn;t gone through your troubles. Whats the humidity level (high low)? regional weather? etc. I wish U all luck. I am sticking with heli fuel though. The people around here that have them run heli fuel in them and no problems at all. I wonder what can be done to determine the problem, because I don't want this to happen to me way dow the road and I'll be past my warranty.

[midmadn]

Originally posted by RCCARTMAN
hey midmadn and rosstapirate, what fuels were u running?, how far into the break in did this happen?, What temps were you running at? I know one thing if my engine does that TTR is gonna next day air mine. This is rediculous. So many problems out of the gate. TOO many problems out of the gate. I am glad that mine has only given me minor problems thus far. ... What was that sound? OH NO I spoke too soon. :) It seems like a curse... everytime I mention how lucky I've been something goes wrong... lets hope the truck doesn't know i am talking about it. "Woops it heard me... (whisper) I gotta go, it's coming!!! No :eek: :eek:

I ran everything from Traxxas 10%, Coolpower 15%, Blue Thunder 20% to Coolpower 30%. The Coolpower 30% Heli seemed to be the best. However, that is what it was running when it went kaput.
I really don't think the Fuel has anything to do with these engines blowing. I know sometimes it can be the fault, but in this case I don't think it has much, if any relation to the problem.

When mine blew, I had app. 12 Tanks total on it. Only once did it actually run the whole tank at one running though. I wasn't babying it at that time, but I wasn't romping on it hard and holding it their. No high rpm runs, just short burst up to about 1/2-3/4 throttle. It was tuned as rich as it could be and not stall out on applying the throttle.

The one thing that I feel is worth noting is that the low end just could not be tuned properly. When it blew, it was idleing high after a short throttle burst. It would take a while for the rpm's to come back down. Usually that means that the low end is rich and the idle speed screw is set too high to accomodate it. I tried leaning the low end and turning the idle down, with great results, but then the adjustments just went down hill. It seemed like I could tune the low, the mid or the high, but never make the engine run correct or anywhere near correct throughout. If I got the idle adjusted just right, it would die on any throttle and nothing I could do would stop it. If I got the high end adjusted just right, it would be fat on the low end requiring the idle to be increased to avoid stalling out. Short story version anyways.

I don't measure temps with a meter. I use the finger test. Don't like spitting on my stuff, although the EK4 could change that. :D

I usually just touch it really quick and pull away, if I don't say, (OH SH*T THATS HOT) I usually touch it again for a little longer. If I still don't say (" " " " "), then I feel it is fine.

On one short run it did get a little hot. Not the run when it blew though.

Jack

[Rosstapirate]

Hey Midmadn I know you were not jerring me! You are a good guy!!! You have been more helpful then alot of people! You need anything just ask! As for the engine I have posted at the ACE Form and they are really lissioning! Well kinda! They said they don't want anyone to be unhappy with them and they will make everything right!! We will see! I still don't know if they will help or if only my dealer can? Find out monady! Rosstaman

[muswagon]

Hey Rosstaman, what Dirt Dummy said was pretty mean/stupid. However, I HAVE to say this, USE SPELL CHECK! Hahahaah:D Sorry, couldnt resist!

[NitroOwnsYou]

Hey guys what are you running for servos? Im thinking what would be acceptable for steering is.....
Torque-150 oz/in at 6.0v
Speed -0.15 sec/60 degrees at 6.0v

And what about the throttle/brake servo? I got to do this on a very limited budget, cuz Im setting up my buggy also! :D

Will this truck work on a starter box? And what glow plugs you guys running?

[RCCARTMAN]

I am running Tower Hobbies TS71MGBB servo. 132 oz. .18 second @6v for only $34.99 http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p.pgm?Q=1&I=LXPB43&P=0

[jhnyblz]

Originally posted by midmadn
Rossta,


Everybody who is saying this is happening due to inexperience, wrong fuel or not being broken in correctly can go F' themselves. Thats B.S. This is clearly a design fault or defective parts/machining. If they all looked like jhnblyz's then I would tend to agree with the possibillity that it was the people and not the Engine. Their is something wrong with this Engine.

Jack

So what are you saying midmadn, Not only was my engine cool to the touch but I am the one if you read my post that apparently told ACE what the problem was with this sorry engine my machine shop guys told me about the "chamfering" problem and i told brandon. so my engine suuuuucked from the beginning and was a design flaw

but i have already explained my position in this thread....with my original batch, 5% fuel, messed up starter, dont work for nothin Thunder Tiger ek-4

wait for my video posting of me towing my EK-4 with my boys T-maxx

thanks for your continued support

[RCCARTMAN]

The truck was rushed and they just slung what they had ready for the Holiday season.

[UP2NOGD]

Hey guys --didn't someone on this forum have an EK4 that would not start?? -- Mine was running fine - flipped it and now it won't do anything except -- blubl, blub, blub, blub??? I have checked the glow plug and have fire and fuel? Any help would be appreciated!! I believe my front bearing is leaking - would this cause the prob??


JJ

[Dirt Dummy]

Originally posted by jhnyblz


So what are you saying midmadn, Not only was my engine cool to the touch but I am the one if you read my post that apparently told ACE what the problem was with this sorry engine my machine shop guys told me about the "chamfering" problem and i told brandon. so my engine suuuuucked from the beginning and was a design flaw

but i have already explained my position in this thread....with my original batch, 5% fuel, messed up starter, dont work for nothin Thunder Tiger ek-4

wait for my video posting of me towing my EK-4 with my boys T-maxx

thanks for your continued support Dude i remember that picture of yours! Not to be mean, But it was fried!! I would not let tt see that picture!:) :)

[jhnyblz]

dirt dummy

Like ive asked everyone "is it possible to fry and engine running it dripping rich and it never gets hot to the touch???" if anyone can explain this to me i will agree.....the other this is that my engine did the exact same thing as everyone elses, and i had two machine shop guy and to high performance mechanics look at and they told me the problem with the intake and exhaust ports... you guys are making a common mistake discoloration can be a sign of heat while it can also be a sign of an orange overhead hanging light....

As for TTR i will autograph that picture and send it to them if they would like cause the bad press of this "engine mishap, caused by "rushing" to get the product out" is not something they want unleashed.

My engine is just as likely to have broken as anyones since i have the 5% manual linked directly to "Brandons" chamfering ring and port problem....

we will see what happens the replacement part for the ek-4 70 were received by ACE yesterday

[Dirt Dummy]

Originally posted by jhnyblz
dirt dummy

Like ive asked everyone "is it possible to fry and engine running it dripping rich and it never gets hot to the touch???" if anyone can explain this to me i will agree.....the other this is that my engine did the exact same thing as everyone elses, and i had two machine shop guy and to high performance mechanics look at and they told me the problem with the intake and exhaust ports... you guys are making a common mistake discoloration can be a sign of heat while it can also be a sign of an orange overhead hanging light....

As for TTR i will autograph that picture and send it to them if they would like cause the bad press of this "engine mishap, caused by "rushing" to get the product out" is not something they want unleashed.

My engine is just as likely to have broken as anyones since i have the 5% manual linked directly to "Brandons" chamfering ring and port problem....

we will see what happens the replacement part for the ek-4 70 were received by ACE yesterday I agree yours broke in thesame place as the rest! Just looked burnt. Mabey the discolor was from running so rich! I am on your side the piston and sleeve are defective! Go to thunder tigers forum and voice your opinion to the new administrator, Who said there is no motor problem it just us! That we do not know how to break in a motor!!!!!!!!!

[jhnyblz]

which forum are you speaking of let me know i will tell anyone my opinion, you can bet on that

[midmadn]

jhnyblz,

I never doubted that you have suffered the same fate as all of us with this problem.

However, if your Engine was in front of me and looked the same as it does in that pic and knowone else was having problems, I would feel differently.

The reason I said if they all looked like yours, it could possibly be the people ruining them is because that pic of yours looks like it cooked. I fully understand that it could be the lighting or even the White Balance of the camera.

Even if yours looks like that in real life, you should definitely be covered under warranty knowing that their was a problem in the first place.

Jack

P.S. If that was my pic, nobody would have seen it. I would not have posted it. Even knowing that their was a problem with these Engines and still feeling that your problem is a result of the defects. I wouldn't have posted that pic. Theirs no need to feel like your being attacked. We're on your side. :D

[jhnyblz]

As far as feeling attacked by you guys, that is silly......feeling pushed aside and ignored and abused by TTR/ACE or whoever that is another story....the problem is in the engine and its manufacturing not in fuel, heat, or Time Zone

Like i told Dirt Dummy i have nothing to hide, i am as others have stated "not some kid who went out and blew up his truck running it to lean and hot" I did more than was was instructed and it still blew up

so as far as the pic goes i will post it at ACEHOBBY. com and I am willing to bet they will have nothing to say about it...

[Dirt Dummy]

Originally posted by jhnyblz
which forum are you speaking of let me know i will tell anyone my opinion, you can bet on that http://acehobby.com/forum/default.asp Log in and go to ek4 forum read some of the adm. post! Then let out your ek4 frustrations

[wipeout]

go to the ek-4 video thread and post your complaint there .I think we got someones attention.

[Dirt Dummy]

Originally posted by wipeout
go to the ek-4 video thread and post your complaint there .I think we got someones attention. Got a link?

[jhnyblz]

wipeout

In response to used-rc's question on the ACE forum make sure you quote the "heli" guys in there observation that a heli engine is great if it is not dogged, aka revved out, fluctuating RPMs, and high torque loads....

a helicopter engine never sees an full or even half throttle directly to a braking condition or it would crash

I am going to post to the "experience R/c" quote though
thanks

[EK4RACER1]

Well guys as you know my engine blown up!!!...cracked piston and debri caused alot of chaos in the engine case, and con rod...
i just got my truck on the 5 of jan..Blew it up 1/16/02..not even a gallon of fuel...

Took it to my local hobby shop, they talked to thunder tiger, and they told me to bring in the engine, they're going to send it to thunder tiger...from there we'll see where ttr stands on this engine problem that every one has..i hope they correct the problem and live up to their name, by taking care of their customers!!

ill keep you all informed of what happens...hopefullly ill get a new engine

[midmadn]

We all need to go to ACE's site and make it known that their are problems, at least with the first batch.

I am so sick and tired of seeing all of the post saying its the fuel or the people not breaking them in right.

Please go here and politely let everyone there know of your troubles.

http://www.acehobby.com/forum/forum.asp?FORUM_ID=7

Also, if you wouldn't mind copying the text from any of your troubled EK4 post to this thread, I think we could make a difference.

http://pub44.ezboard.com/fehobbiesfrm67.showMessage?topicID=23.topic

Thanks

Jack

[RCCARTMAN]

I think the webmaster at the ACE forum is a jerk. He basically puts all of the problems of the trucks on the faults of the operators. True many of us don't have experience with heli engines, but we are capable of following instructions. The instructions must have been written by a 5 year old Vietnamese child that has limited knowledge of the english language. Their are so many errors and contradictions in the instruction manual that a chimp with one arm and a learning disability could have done a better job of proofreading this stupid publication. The workmanship of the engine was rushed and that leaves a great margin of error in production of such a precise piece of equipment. Machining engines should be a finely precisioned operation that in which the final operator of the engine has no underlying problems awaiting the right moment to unfolfd unto the world of RC. Leaking bearings, leaking heads, leaking starter units, leaking exhaust manifolds... are these the characteristics of precise machined engines?...NO, I think not. Sure we didn't follow the instruction manual where it said use 5% nitro for break in and in the front of the manual it say use between 15-30 % nitro fuel only. Contradictory. I went to the local experts for advice, because I didn't know of the companies customer service reputation, but now i do. I have placed 7 emails to the company dating back to December 8, 2001, and I have yet to hear from them. I will call soon, and I dare them to mouth off at me. I have money and will travel their to get in someones face. I am fed up with companies that have people dealing with the public that don't have people skills. Anyway, I'm just upset after reading that forum, and I had to let a little steam off. :o AHH I feel better now.:p

[jhnyblz]

RCCARTMAN

thats what i am talking about i have called and i am still receiving the run around. The guys I am supposed to talk to are always in a meeting or on a 3 hour lunch and messages left, ha dont expect any return calls. Im with you and i told them this, I will fly out there if i continue to have problems, I've already wasted $900 dollars on a truck and equipment

and as far as that ACE admin goes, he out right threatens ORION with his "if you want to get anything out of this i suggest you make me your friend not your enemy, ive to told this to others and you are no different" what is that for customer service what ever happened to "welcome to mcdonalds can i take you order, and do you want fries with that" these guys need a lesson or 2

[burnt-kat]

WRONG.

If the engine has to spin 2 times to spin the transmission once <2:1 gearing you speak of> the truck will actually go HALF as fast.... in your instance, 20mph.

What you were TRYING to say, was :

1:1 @ 18,000 RPM- 40mph [for example]
1:2 @ 18,000 RPM- 80mph [for example] [this is known as an overdrive ratio. This is what makes your 1:1 car or truck have better highway fuel economy. This is also why the tranny has to "kick down" out of Overdrive, to give you passing power. Just ask anyone who's ever had their kickdown cable go bad on them how the car has no power.]

This is, of course, a theoretical example. Also, any motor that's turning the entire tranny over twice with each rev of the motor, is going to have VERY low torque characteristics. In short, it'll be a dog. But we're just talking about extreme examples here, to keep things relatively simple.


Originally posted by muswagon
To simplify more;

Geared 1 to 1, @ max 18,000rpm, = for example 40mph

geared 2 to 1, @ max 18,000rpm, = for example 80mph

I am still lost as to what you meant

[muswagon]

Hey burnt dog or rat or whatever, you should read on to where I said I was exactly opposite of I meant. Why are you reading posts from two months ago?

[Dirt Dummy]

Ace has stated on there forum that there are only a few problem ek4"s I started a thread HOW MANY PEOPLE HAVE PROBLEMS Go there and let ace know how many there really are!

[RCCARTMAN]

If ACE doesn't get their act straight, I will cross them off of my list of distributors. This means they can stuff their Thunder Tiger vehicles, helis, and engines where it they belong.

[Techspert]

Originally posted by UP2NOGD
Hey guys --didn't someone on this forum have an EK4 that would not start?? -- Mine was running fine - flipped it and now it won't do anything except -- blubl, blub, blub, blub??? I have checked the glow plug and have fire and fuel? Any help would be appreciated!! I believe my front bearing is leaking - would this cause the prob??


JJ


Blub...blub...dude, your engine is probably toast like mine. No matter what I tried, it would not start. I sent it to Ace 3 weeks ago and have yet to receive it back. Brandon says the engine parts have yet to arrive.

Sux...:mad:

[RCCARTMAN]

ACE = US distributors of TTR = THE PARENT EFFECT ("Because I say so", "I am in charge here") or even the BIG BULLYING BROTHER EFFECT ("you want it, here... (pull away) You can't have it") They taunt us and tease us, but they will get theirs (said in a creepy revengeful voice). HAHHAHAHHHAAAA (cold sadistic plotting laugh) They are in charge of the TTR and without them we probably wouldn't have TTR in the US, so they feel that we have nowhere else to turn so we have to take their abuse.

[Dirt Dummy]

This is where ace stands!! http://acehobby.com/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=108

[Rosstapirate]

I THINK I JUST WANT MY MONEY BACK!:(

[Dirt Dummy]

Originally posted by Rosstapirate
I THINK I JUST WANT MY MONEY BACK!:( Post here and let ace know http://acehobby.com/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=120

[RCCARTMAN]

ACE stinks

[Dirt Dummy]

Originally posted by RCCARTMAN
ACE stinks Let them know at http://acehobby.com/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=120

[bmaxx]

Has anyonyne else heard the rumor that the EK4 Starter Kit is out? I tried the website www.msj.com, but hat was not the right one. Anyone have any idea. They look pretty sweet:cool: Any help would be appreciated:)

[EK4RACER1]

its on msjproducts.com

[StevePond]

I just received the starter kit and cylinder head today. It looks very nice, but I haven't had the chance to try these parts yet. I'll let you know once I get a chance to run the truck using these parts.

[EK4RACER1]

Stevep,

Where did you get your parts from??...autohaus???

thanks

[bmaxx]

thanks for the info :) I checked the site
www.msjproducts.com
and they're ready for immediate delivery.
So much for early Feb.
Gotta love it when someone is
actually ahead of schedule.
I'll have to check it out.

[NitroOwnsYou]

LOL I posted at ace's forun, but I dont know how long it will be up lol its here:Bleh@TTR (http://acehobby.com/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=120)

[Dirt Dummy]

Good post nitroOwensyou!!!

[vsnakebytev]

IM GETTING THE EK4! I WON IT ON EBAY FOR $460 & IT SHOULD BE HERE ON TUESDAY

[Nitro Power Kid]

Why do you think it was on Ebay, haven't you read these EK4 posts? Oh well you can always put the marine engine from your Tmaxx in your EK4 when the piston blows apart.

[RCCARTMAN]

this truck is a bank roll eliminator, as a matter of fact, TTR shoud re-release it as THE BANK ROLL ELIMINATOR haha

[NitroOwnsYou]

If anyone is interested in getting this truck as I was for a B-Day gift 2 myself :D Ide wait it out a bit! But I did pick up a brand new Monster Pirate w/ the *** Hyper .21 (but hey its something :D) for 279.99 He does have about 4 left. If anyone is interested its HERE!!!!!! (http://www.speedzoneraceway.com/product.asp?0=241&1=289&3=223) Its where Midmadn got 2 of his also. His name is Mike, Yes he did remember ya Jack. I was stunned when he remembered you. Its nice when some people still have some people skills. I asked him if he sold the EK4 and he said yes and he is pissed with the whole deal. He says he has 2 there that he refuses to sell. He even talked with TTR and could not get anywhere!:rolleyes: Thats sad when even the people who sell TTR's product gets blown off! Anyways a nice alternative to the ek4 and a good price! Man Im pissed that the ek4 is on the negative....I really wanted one of these to add to the MP! Oh well Im off to track down another Hyper 7 Pro! Anyone think the Monster Pirate would survive the thrashing of a JP Racing Pro 99?? I would like to try it out!!!

[NitroOwnsYou]

Jack Do the T-Maxx bodies fit the Monster Pirate??


Jr

[Techspert]

Guys,

Do you think RCCA had trouble with this truck when they did their article or did TTR pre-prep it really well to mask the problems?

Also, if RCCA would have any glitches or major engine calamities....would they have mentioned it?
:confused:

To all perspective EK-4 buyers, WAIT for a TTR REVISION TO BE RELEASED B4 PURCHASING THIS TRUCK !!!!!

My engine has been sitting on Brandon's (of ACE HOBBY) shelf for OVER 3 WEEKS waiting for TTR REVISED ENGINE PARTS.
:mad:

[NitroOwnsYou]

Originally posted by Techspert
Guys,

Do you think RCCA had trouble with this truck when they did their article or did TTR pre-prep it really well to mask the problems?

Also, if RCCA would have any glitches or major engine calamities....would they have mentioned it?
:confused:



Yes and no.....They might have had a tweaked truck, or they might have had one that went bad on them but overlooked it because it was a prepoduction truck(and was fixed immediately through TTR)???:confused: I would really like to see steve step up to bat with us on the motor issues. Obviously everyone who has touched this truck has had problems. I dont believe the admin @ ace hobby. I think if a few were only having problems, that phone lines wouldnt be maxxed out and voice mail wouldnt be full! This is getting complaints from customer to dealers. I think we need an article written up on this truck by the guys from RCCA. Maybe that would create some fire under TTR's feet. Steve do you honestly think this is mostly user error on the engine problems? If yes go into detail, if no maybe can we see an article come out on this in the next rcca to be printed??

Jr

[StevePond]

I'll try not to take this personally because I tested the truck for Nitro, not RCCA, and your question implies that I might have lied about the truck.
You also suggest by your question that Thunder Tiger may have deliberately released a product that has potential flaws.

I'll address the part about the article first. Anything that happened to the truck during testing is outlined in the article. During testing I thought I had blown the rear differential because I was only getting front wheel drive at one point. It turns out the drive cup on the rear differential had a loose set screw - tighten it up and problem fixed. I suggested in the article that even though the factory uses thread locking compound during assembly, it's not strong enough and the fasteners should be gone over with a quality thread locker. That's the extent of the problems I had during the test.
I followed up on this bulletin board with two other problems I experienced after the article was printed - the center spool and the clutch. The original center spool was made of nickel-plated mild steel and wasn't strong enough material. The grub screw was ripping away at the soft metal. I contacted Thunder Tiger and let them know of the problem, and they said a hardened steel upgrade was on it's way and would be included in all future kits. I also had a problem with the clutch, but it turned out the retainer spring had separated and I just replaced it with a fresh one and it was back in business.
If you're inclined to think the worst of everyone in every situation, then maybe you would have to assume that because a limited number of owners have had engine trouble, that I would have certainly had the same problems and concealed it from the readers. The truth is, my truck is still running and I haven't experienced any engine problems. In fact I'm in the process of cleaning it up so I can install and test the new MSJ Clyinder head and starter kit.

I can't speak for Thunder Tiger but I'm a firm believer in the premise that the simplest explanation is usually the correct one. I don't think for a second that they would intentionally release a product that they know has a flaw, if there is one. I'm sure they're looking into it and trying to determine the cause of the problems we've seen so far.

[NitroOwnsYou]

I wasnt stating that you lied or that you covered up something, I was curious at your dealings. It seems like alot of people are having problems, and yes there are ones that havent been here to discuss them! I know you end up chipping in your opinions which are GREATLY appreciated, but this seems like its a problem that isnt getting resolved, and no I dont think TTR released this "knowingly" of the problems coming out. But Im concerned if they are taking action with the problems they are seeing with the piston being chipped. I Loved the writeup in Nitro and would like to see a followup on it. It wasnt an attack at you or any of the guys there Steve, moreso a cry for help :D

[StevePond]

NitroOwnsYou - that was my reply for Techspert. I've taken a couple of points from your post and responded as well.


Originally posted by NitroOwnsYou

I would really like to see steve step up to bat with us on the motor issues.

Please see the following thread: http://www.radiocontrolzone.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=69504

Originally posted by NitroOwnsYou

Obviously everyone who has touched this truck has had problems.

False and inflamatory statement. Yes, based on the posts I see here, there's a need for improvement. But lets stay away from congecture unless were in a position to know everything that's going on around the world with all the trucks.

Originally posted by NitroOwnsYou

Steve do you honestly think this is mostly user error on the engine problems?

I'm not suggesting any problems are mostly the result of user error. I do think that some owners have contributed to thier own problems however. User error accounts for over 90-percent of engine failure even in engines with no recognizable defects. This situation certainly appears to be different but you can't automatically attribute every engine problem to a defect.

We need to refocus this thread on getting issues about this truck handled. I forwarded the links related to the EK-4 to Thunder Tiger in Taiwan, and they ARE paying attention. As long as we're wasting time with silly "black helicopter" speculation, we're not going to be part of the solution. These are the largest threads on any BB by far concerning the EK-4. Lets use it as a resource to provide level headed feedback to the manufacturer.

[muswagon]

Steve, excellent reply.

I have not had piston problems (other than being pissed'n broke...just kidding), but I do have a broken starter shaft, which dinged my connecting rod evry so slightly. I phoned Ace and talked to Brandon personally, he said "no problem, send it in" and when I asked about the metal shavings and possible piston damage he said "we will check the whole thing over and replace what is needed". I do not see why everyone is crying about how bad Ace is handling this. Perhaps if you phone with attitude, then ya, they have every right to tell you to pound salt, but that is not the case. Admin on Ace's sight said THOUSANDS have been sold, there are only maybe 10 of us that have problems on this forum, so let's say that 20 have problems and only 1000 were sold, thats only 2%. Try to find odds that low even in a real car. Anyway, I think Ace has done a great job, and I think TTR (in the words of SteveP) has balls for introducing this monster, never mind offering to fix it for free.

[RCCARTMAN]

I am glad to hear that some of you have been able to reach ACE and they are handling your problems. I, on the other hand, have sent more than 6 emails to ACE, made several calls, and left 2 phone messages... no reply. What is it?... Do you need to know someone there or what? As far as my problems... I have resolved them myself... Thanks for nothing ACE, but now I am seeing the result of yet another vehicle thrown onto the market with a need for an abundance of aftermarket products to make it operate efficiently, and properly. My leaking head, manifold, reversing engine, inability to get a stable idle setting, broken cheap front knuckles and suspension arms, broken body posts, and cheap metal parts are really starting to bother me. If I ever get in touch with a live person, or have any personalized attention from the North American, Thunder Tiger Distributors, known as ACE, I will let them know of my troubles. I was thrilled with the idea of a 70 powered beast so I rushed to buy one, only to be let down. ACE hasn't shown me that my business is worthwhile, so I do believe that Thunder Tiger shall not be a brands that is stocked at my shop upon opening. I want to find a company that doesn't leave you grabbing your ankles while waiting for some simple customer support, and general service. Can ACE turn this situation around, maybe, but I doubt soon.:mad:

[Techspert]

Originally posted by muswagon
[B]Steve, excellent reply.

I phoned Ace and talked to Brandon personally, he said "no problem, send it in" and when I asked about the metal shavings and possible piston damage he said "we will check the whole thing over and replace what is needed". I do not see why everyone is crying about how bad Ace is handling this. B]

I did the same and received the same sincere reply from Brandon...BUT THAT WAS OVER 3 WEEKS AGO :confused: :( :mad:

I am able to get through to ACE and have spoken to Brandon, but he can only say "we're expecting the parts from TTR any day now." Meanwhile, I have an engineless buggy collecting dust. I'm not really dogging ACE HOBBY, I just want my engine back (repaired and free from defective workmanship/materials and design flaws).

I too was hyped when I saw the RCCA/Nitro video of the EK-4. I think the idea of putting a huge displacement engine in a Monster Truck by TTR was a great idea, but I also think they rushed it into production OR had some cruMMy workmanship when it came to putting the vehicle together especially in the engine department. And that cooling head--- :confused: --- what we're they thinking of besides cutting corners?

:o well, I guess I'll put on my :cool:, relax and :rolleyes: of one day being able to drive my EK-4.

[UP2NOGD]

We'll it appears that I too will join the ranks of those waiting on ACE -- My truck was running great then starting leaking fuel from every "orifice" -- first the starter, next the exhaust gasket, then the front bearing -- now she won't start and sounds very metallic when being turned over? Oh well at least I found the post on the affordable MP's -- let me see 2x279.00 two radios and servos -- "Hey my EK cost me a grand with everything -- Sounds like a Two for One Sale"!!!!

**Does anybody know who to contact at Ace**??
JJ

[midmadn]

RCCARTMAN and UP2NOGOOD,

What Fuel were you running? Did you break it in properly or did you get antsy and get on it too soon?

I'm totally kidding. I could care f'in less what fuel you were running or how you broke it in. I just got so sick of hearing those 2 questions/comments thrown out at those of us with dust collectors, that I thought it might be fun to post them myself. I was wrong.

I have broken in atleast 2 dozen Nitro Engines. Aircraft, Marine, Buggy and Heli. Never had a problem before now.

Jack

[UP2NOGD]

Why yes and no - or was it both??? Hmmmmm -- Okay I used 5% and some 30% divided by 2 (x 3) ! My carb settings were turned out pie squared and I burned at least 1/2 of the first tank before I hammered the throttle!!!! I just cannot understand what happened?? Can anybody help? Does this bunch of @#&$ sound familiar to ya! Oh by the way -- that MP is looking mighty good?? Weeeeeeeeeee Just Having Fuuuuuuuuunnnnnnnn!!!!

JJ

[UP2NOGD]

We made headlines on the E-hobbies Forum with one of our earlier post! So how does it feel to be a non-Ek4 running
celebeeeeerity!! A Star is Born!!

JJ

[kingpirate]

My EK4 is a dust colector also, I could make mine run but it ran hot. Then the one way bearing went bad and when I took the starting asembly out I could see the conecting rod was rubing against the starter housing and wearing it away ,I called ACE ,got Brandon on the line he said send it in and its been about two and a half weeks waiting on parts.

[midmadn]

Originally posted by UP2NOGD
We made headlines on the E-hobbies Forum with one of our earlier post! So how does it feel to be a non-Ek4 running
celebeeeeerity!! A Star is Born!!

JJ

Which post are you referring to? :D

Jack

[UP2NOGD]

http://pub44.ezboard.com/fehobbiesfrm67.showMessage?topicID=23.topic

Hey guys I don't mean to make fun of a bad situation but as I was once told -- This is kind of like going to get that new eye surgery with less than a 1% chance of anything going wrong -- it really doesn't sound bad unless your in that 1% -- so to UsedRc and everyone else that is not having probs -- hey guys I am really happy that your Ek is running great, I will tell ya it was really fun for a while when mine was running --but now mine and many others are not! Does this mean were pissed -- were in the 1% -- get it?? Just keep shoot'n those rooster tails for the rest of the gang that is just blow'n dust!! And as crazy as this sounds -- I truly beleive that ACE will make this right -- so in the interim -- can you spell O-F-N-A "MP" thats me!!

JJ

:D :D :D

[NitroOwnsYou]

JJ

If you buy it from that link I posted, call him and see how many he has left. Mike at Speedzone RC said he had 4 or 5 and was a great guy to shoot the S with. Hes was VERY helpful, and I let him know I was going to sell them all for him by posting that link on the net. :D Hey why not support the guys that support us! He got mine all packaged up while I was talking to him friday and was sending it out monday morning!

Jr

Oh if you want your EK4 to run go HERE (http://www.speedzoneraceway.com/product.asp?3=223) ,mount the ek4 body on that, and your ready to roll! :D

[UP2NOGD]

The only way I will get my EK4 to move right now is by maybe strapping it to the top of the MP!! Or maybe I could just kick the &%$@ out of it and watch it fly -oops -"jump" through the air -- and If I quickly grab my controller- Hmmmmmmmmmm!!:D Thanks for the info. -- it is nice that many of the LHS's are dropping prices a bit to help those of us who enjoy spending the grocery money!!!! Again many thanks to all who have listened to the pissing and mooooooooaaaaaaannnnnniiiinnnngggg!!

JJ

[T28pilot]

Originally posted by tylerlikes69
I am sorry but this truck looks extremely.... dumb. What can you do with it? I bet any dough it can't climb very well, I know your all going to start bitching about how it has so much torque, well yea, it's got a .70, but I bet it will flip climbing hills at the touch of the throttle. Look at it in the videos. Tell me how fun it would be to drive for a long period of time, all the guy does is slightly tap the throttle and the thing goes rearing out of control. I may be wrong, but I'll stick with the Maxx on this one.

this thing will climb like there is no tomarrow!!.......dude it weighs almost 12 pounds!!!
i will out climb out whatever you want against your t-maxx e-maxx-o-maxx-no-maxx.....hands down the the most powerful truck there is ........
but i too am thinking a .91 saito 4 stroker would be a stump pullin...hill climbin MOFO!
But it pretty much is that now!!!

[RCCARTMAN]

T28pilot, why get an engine with a drop off of .55 HP and less rpm?

[RCCARTMAN]

Does anyone know where I can get some gearing options? I want more speed.:D

[PITSTAIN RC]

http://www.networktechniques.com/pitstain/images/ek4/DSC00120.JPG
http://www.networktechniques.com/pitstain/images/ek4/DSC00121.JPG

[T28pilot]

i've been lookin into those...i haven't had troubles with over heating yet and i read when alot of people get those there motor breaks....might just be a fluke too........it sure does look nice tho.....also i see you are running it really rich from your needle setting there...are you still breaking it in?...what fuel you running??....i am running omega 30% heli fuel in mine

[PITSTAIN RC]

thats a brand new pro 70 heli engine not truck engine i swapped in the truck parts and am waiting for my msj starter before i try another break in since my old motor is dead.

i have 2 gallons of 30% cool power waiting

[RCCARTMAN]

Hey guys check the National RC EK4. http://www.nationalrc.com/main2.htm

[EK4RACER1]

pitstain rc

what kind of shocks are those, what are there part #'s and how much did they cost...oh yeah and where did you buy them from...

i read that its your second engine, im assuming your engine that came with the truck is somewhere at ace..just like me!!...have you heard any news of them repairing or replacing those engines??

thanks

[PITSTAIN RC]

those are from Dynamite i got em at horizon hobbies for $89.99
they come in a set of 8 for the t-maxx, they are made by losi and are similar to the threaded units found on the xxxt and xxxnt

http://www.horizonhobby.com/products/description.asp?prod=DYN7636&pc=DYN7636

[jhnyblz]

hey i just called "Brandon" and got a tracking number for my engine...i sent it in Jan 8 and it was shipped to me Feb 5th by ups ground service and is expected to arrive Tues 12th. I will let you know how that all turns out.

[UP2NOGD]

Where'd ya get those?? Look'n Sweet! I'm still on the injured reserve list! Hopefully Ace will return the heart of the Beast Soon?

JJ

[UP2NOGD]

Just noticed the Reply Above on the Shocks!

JJ

[elwood80]

Do any of you know when the EK4 Unlimited is due for release??? thanks...

[RCCARTMAN]

EK4 unlimited... got any sites, pics, etc? Hooligan are U talking about the EK4S2 Pro kit?

[RCCARTMAN]

The Thunder Tiger Ergal head is interchangeable, so it works for the PRO70BX, and the PRO90BX.

[UP2NOGD]

You may want to visit Crazy Bill's place -- www.nationalrc.com he has a proto of the EK4 unlimited?? I can only imagine how much that thing will cost -- heck I'm in the normal EK4 for around $1200.00 with a head and starter! Remember if you stare at it to long your bonker will lose its sting!!!!:D :D :D :D

JJ

[nitro tiger]

Hey guy's i am having problems wit this truck again!!!! i often wonder why do i bother and then i remember how insane it is when it's running right!!! anyway i can't get this thing running right when i lean it out it stalls when i richen it it stalls i am no ameutar at tuning but i have spent the last week trying to get this right thats 3hours staight. it was running fine i insatalled the new head and starter and everything was fine i fixed all leakes as well nothing should be wrong but there is. what could go wrong with the carb? the motor is perfect please help. I am losing patience with this truck and i don't want my friend to be right about you should of brought a t'maxx..

NITROTIGER!!!!

:confused: :confused:

[BUTTY]

NITRO. take my advice mate & get a t-maxx , returned my ek4 & got a t-maxx today , after all the trouble i have had with the ek4 this t is out of this world at least it has run with no trouble ,get the t-maxx or you will lose intrest in the hobby, you have been warned!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
martin

[nitro tiger]

thanks butty but i want to try to figure this out i have dumped 1000 bucks in this thing and i want to figure this out it seems dumb but maybe someone has had the same problem that can help me. please help sos sos

[BUTTY]

nitro i admire your determination but a man can only take so much lol, keep on in there man best of luck .

[UP2NOGD]

Hey Nitro -- Its funny you are having carb probs?? I sent my engine back to TTR due to mechanical failure, however I was experiencing the same probs that you are before it went?? I never could get it to do the same thing twice -- richen her up, great for about two runs and then to much, lean it out great for two runs and then temp went ballistic -- tune it some more would run fine and "then" boom! The lights went out??? Please let me know if you find the prob -- TTR is suppose to return my engine this week, however I kept the carb here - I guess I will still have the carb probs when I get it back!

JJ

[BigDaddy550]

Hey guys, I am getting some parts within the next day or two and then I'm gonna be running it hard again. My engine is running great and tuning is no problem. I had to go considerably leaner on the low end from stock setting to get it from not stalling on me. Personally, I don't want to jinx myself which I probably will but this is the best nitro engine I have ever owned. I like it a lot better than my OS .15 because of the drill start which makes starting this motor a breeze and it starts and tunes so easy. I wish luck to you guys that sent your engine in and hopefully TTR just had a few fault engine. Just wanted to let you guys know my position.

RC

[muswagon]

I sent mine in and it is now on the way home. In my attached letter, I mentioned that I had the 5% nitro instructions, and that my carb was bad (binding). Mine was only sent in due to a broken starter shaft and a mutilated connecting rod (cuz of the shaft), but Brandon replaced the carb, piston/ring/sleeve/conn rod and a new starter shaft. I can't wait to actually get a tank through this beast!

[nitro tiger]

UP2NOGD,

I will let you know how i make out i got some instructions on how to set it and it worked. i made 2 passes and it was great and now i can't get it started again i took it apart nothing wrong just wont fire i don't know about this thing i will try calling ttr for the 100th time to see if i could speak to someone thanks. I will keep you posted guys i will try again tommrow and will see what happens.

NITROTIGER!!!:confused: :confused:

[UP2NOGD]

That sounds awfully familiar! I was running fine - trying to dial it in -- then fuel and fire, just will not crank? One thing that I did notice, is that if you plug the stinger "just for a few turns" it will begin to fire off???? Somebody else reading this may have the answer? I am assuming that this is forcing fuel into the engine -- would major air leaks cause this? If you find the answer please let me know! My engine is not back "yet" but I am sure the carb problem will be waiting!

JJ

[T28pilot]

Originally posted by UP2NOGD
That sounds awfully familiar! I was running fine - trying to dial it in -- then fuel and fire, just will not crank? One thing that I did notice, is that if you plug the stinger "just for a few turns" it will begin to fire off???? Somebody else reading this may have the answer? I am assuming that this is forcing fuel into the engine -- would major air leaks cause this? If you find the answer please let me know! My engine is not back "yet" but I am sure the carb problem will be waiting!

JJ

I was just reading your post and mine does the same...with out the total destruction at the end......mine runs Great for a while like you said then leans out and dies....i ususally don't push the issue and put it away......i am thinking it is that back plate starter deal.....letting air in.....it isn't a very good fit and most like on mine i know it is not air tight.......it is a really good idea what they did on the starter but not well engineered.....if you still have problems try getting the MSJ Precision Products stater kit.....much better engineered.....i am waiting on mine now and i will try and keep you updated with the carb setting i finally end up with....and hopefully stick with....Check it out here........ http://checkout.verisign.com/cgi-bin/ePages.storefront/3c3dc78a00ab9e50271ec0a801380681/Product/View/121481&2D1270440

[nitro tiger]

Hey T28pilot,

I have the new starter and it is pretty well sealed i also thought that was the problem but never the less it just keeps stalling i managed to get it ti idle i got some settings from the acehobby sight under the ek4 spot i startred a thread to try and get some help. it's under ek4 carb problems. i used that set up and it worked great and then after a cople of passed it wouldn't start i don't get it. i took the motor apart and everything was fine perfect. so tommrow is a new day i will try this bease again.

NITROTIGER!!!!:confused:

[T28pilot]

Oh ok....well mine always starts ...just getting a little hot after about 3/4 a tank of fuel.....but that's climbing hills and just putting around ...it really isn't getting much air sitting still

[RCCARTMAN]

Nitro Tiger for the life of me I can't find my instruction book. Does anyone know the stock carb setting for Nitro Tiger. You might need to take it to an expert. I do. R U experienced with heli engines? I'd try to go to a heli pro, and keep in mind that although it is a heli motor, it is still in a vehicle. An on board ignition might help. Worth a try. I think. Good luck.

[UP2NOGD]

Have the New Head -- Have the New Starter -- I don't have my engine and I don't have any more "cash"!! -- I'll either go broke or crazy with this thing??? -- Has anyone heard from Muswagon -- the word is that he should have his engine back?? Does it work? -- How about Hooligan? I guess they are all out rippin it up while the rest of us must use this thread to piss and moan??

JJ

[MaxxHead]

Hey guys, been talking to TTR about the starter. They told me to send mine in and they would fix my slipping bearing. They said they had no plans for an updated starter. I have already ordered the MSJ starter.

[midmadn]

Originally posted by UP2NOGD
-- Has anyone heard from Muswagon -- the word is that he should have his engine back?? Does it work? -- JJ

I chatted with Muswagon yesterday on IM for a minute. He still doesn't have his engine back. He said hopefully this week.

[hooligan]

Originally posted by UP2NOGD
Does it work? -- How about Hooligan? JJ

hooligan has become total sick of his ttr engine and ordered a spanky new pro 70 engine. since we have no ttr dealer in the country, sending the engine back to the uk is so much hassle that i decided to buy a new one.
i am building the cranc over in the new engine as we speak.
i ordered both autohaus hopups (head and starter) and when i get them i am ready to rock again.

[muswagon]

Hey guys,

I spoke with Brandon last Thursday. He told me that everything is replaced that I listed in my letter with the engine; starter shaft, conn rod, piston/ring/sleeve, and my binding carb. Great....but....he told me the thing should have arrived Friday or Monday. Well, it be Thursday and still no motor. Dunno what to think. I will call again and get a tracking number. If they didnt send it UPS, who knows when I may get it. International mail service sucks, so this could be fun. I havnt lost faith, and I put the body and wheels back on so I could stare at it and watch the EK4 video, how sad is that!!!!!!!:D

[UP2NOGD]

Nice to hear from both of you!! I was kinda thinking that those TTR trucks had become haunted and had done away with ya! Anyhow I'm still in the same boat as Muswagon - mine was shipped yesterday and I'm still waiting?? I'll let all know how the new and improved version goes????? As for now I must go find the "THREE" woman I have in this house (Wife and Two Daughters):D :D and wish them a happy valentine's day before bedtime!!!

JJ

[jhnyblz]

Got my blown ek-4 engine back from ACE on Tuesday, besided the beat up box everything looked good. Set carbs to initial setting, turned engine over and it started first crank over. Ran it fat, too fat cause it bogged out. Went to restart and starter shaft snapped. Called ACE on Sat, the were not open but someone did answer the phone. Asked if they put on the new starter, their reply "some of the first engines that came in to be repaired did not get the new started because we were hurrying to get them out" what a bunch of ishhh!!!

now autohaus isn't getting a shipment in until tuesday, so i may be able to get one by friday. ACE said they would send me one a soon as the could, but you know how slow they are probably wont go out until wed and then they sent their packages by foot i believe. any way had the ek4 since christmas, total run time 1 1/4 hours that is about $800 dollars spent per hour

NICE!!!!!!!!!!!

[RCCARTMAN]

R U all considering the 90 upgrade. RC Alloys made a 120 truck.

[muswagon]

Well,

I got my motor back. Ace didnt list it as a warranty return, so my wonderful country charged me $70 in taxes to get the sucker home. The starter assembly was built wrong, the bushing is too far in the motor, making the whole thing bind, you can barely turn the motor over! The connecting rod gouge, which was th reason I sent the thing in, is still there meaning same frikken connecting rod. What is up with this company, I defended them till I was blue in the face! I cannot believe it.

[midmadn]

Man that sucks big time.

I can't believe they would re-use a damaged rod.

Go over to Aces forum and raise some cain. I almost want to do it for you, but I'm trying to be nice. [:D]

I just can't believe the stuff that has happened with this truck. I keep thinking Ace is going to get their stuff together, but I just don't know.

My new engine is running sweet. It wasn't at first, but after changing to an MC-59 plug it has been a delight to run.

Jack

P.S. Get the MSJ starter if you don't already have one. Best money I ever spent on the EK4.

P.S.S. I think I have been hanging around Aces forum too much. Look at the big grin. I have never participated in a BBS that has that messed up UBB code.

[UP2NOGD]

Now isn't this interesting?? I got my motor back as well and upon closer examination -- I still have the messed up rod and the motor casing that is cracked and ground apart from misaligned parts on the first go round?? I actually used the radio and receiver from my Ek4 and after noticing the great rebuild from ACE I haven't been real excited about buying or putting em' back?? Good luck with yours -- I do actually have the MJS Starter and it is a whole lot better -- Oh Yea -- on the starter issue -- after all the freaking problems with the grub screws backing out and releasing the starter pin into the rod, one would think that "ACEhole" would replace the starter as they did on some of the repairs -- "NOPE --when are these guys going to learn -- I'll be honest -- in the future if it says Thunder Tiger -- I will indeed run with fright!!

JJ:confused:

[RCCARTMAN]

Some of Ace reps need some attitude adjustments. I know a million people have called today with problems, but heres another, and I wanted to be treated as if I was the first.;)

[hooligan]

:D my cooling head and starterkit from autohaus arrived today, so i am af building my spankynew .70 in the ek4 again.
props go to christian at autohaus for the fine and fast service. 3 day shipping from the states to the netherlands is outstanding.
plus he got me the new adonized version for no extra charge !

[10PM TYRANT]

Yes Christian and Team Autohaus have some of the fastest service i have ever seen with mail order, i have the cooling head, starter, tranny top plate, front chassis brace, and soon to have the rear body mounts and front shock tower also.

Did anyone see the alluminum wheels Autohuas has? they are sweet

http://www.autohausrc.com/msjwheel1_Cropped.jpg

put some maxx mulchers on those rims and you could pull a bus down the sreet!!!

i have never and said i would never buy alloy rims but ...........:D

i think i might make myself a liar and get these

[nitromt2002]

That truck is BAD A$$ looking!!!!!!:eek: :cool: :D :p

[RCCARTMAN]

They are nice looking, but aren't they a lot smaller than the EK4 tires. Won't this change the performance?

[hooligan]

they shouls make rims where the stock ek4 tyres fit

[ducklake1]

Comparison Pic:

http://theweltons.com/DSC00013.JPG

[UP2NOGD]

Yea --It will change the performance -- For the Better!! Smaller Tires -- less weight -- more *&#@ that will get broke when ya make a mistake!!:D :D :D :D

[RCCARTMAN]

Do you all like the Naova Faor or TTR ergal knuckles. I am undecided on which to buy. I'd like to convert the front and rear suspension arms to Monster Pirates metal hop ups. I might, depending on how much it will cost.

[UP2NOGD]

RC concepts sell MP parts alot cheaper than I have seen.
I believe their website is www.rcconcepts.com The prices they listed in RC Nitro were about 1/2 of others??

JJ

[RCCARTMAN]

It won't load up to a site. It keeps coming up to a password screen. Do you have to be a member?

[UP2NOGD]

No -- Sorry about that, try -- www.rcconcepts.net -- check it out and let me know what you think about their parts -- I am looking for a few myself?

Johnny

[Chief]

The reason why they are so much cheaper than the ofna ones is because they are made with softer aluminum. It is not as high grade and they bend alot easier from what ive heard and seen. If you want dependability get the ofna ones instead, even though they are far more expensive it is worth it. Good - Luck.

[RCCARTMAN]

Does anyone make metal suspension arms for the truck or buggy?

[StevePond]

Cart - I do like the Nuova Faor stuff. Very good quality. As for the metal suspension arms; I haven't seen any yet, but I don't think I would use them. Something else would break that might be harder or more costly to fix.

[Mt killer]

I have a MP with a G-1 and a metal two speed in it. I know it flys and it will not tip over either it just power slides! However my EK4 does all of that. once it gets a two speed it will be faster then the MP. So it will beat it all around low end torque and in the speed department. Once the two speed comes out I will have to sell my MP. I will keep my T-maxx around for the suspenstion. And to this day no one has a great safety feature like that traxxas slipper clutch. Man the diffs I could have saved on my MP with a slipper on it. Sure the T-maxx is slow and under powered even with the O.S. .15 but it was my first nitro and it is great for my sons to grab when we go out. Heck I started with a hornet and then a black foot. My boys get to start with a real monster like the T-maxx ! 30 MPH is not slow for a beginner! Let's not mix words here fellas with that .70 motor in it nothing to this day can compare to the EK4. You will know it if you get a chance to drive one. beleive me the vids do not do it justice! I just broke mine in in my front yard. at half throttle I was riding wheelies for about 20 feet. There isn't a .21 motor made that can do that!

[ronin8451]

I just wanted to post an opinion about some of the problems people are having with this engine:
1) I see guys swithing from low nitro to high nitro then back to low, this is a no no ! After break in is started, never go back to a lower nitro content! Your motor will go into detonation and blow!

2)These are "ringed" motors, not ABC . These need 20% oil, so either add oil to your car fuel, run the popular "break-in fuel" that already has high oil content, or run heli fuel.

3) "Ringed" motors take gallons, not tanks to break-in properly, so don't run 10 tanks then hammer on it. Baby it for a gallon or so, but I've seen helicopters run best after 3 or 4 gallons!

4) This motor cannot be tuned to sound like an ABC .21, it should sound more like a weedeater motor (kinda fat and blubbery). When have you heard a helicopter go Waaaaaaaaaa!?

5)Loctite, loctite, loctite!! Loctite the grub screws immediately on the starter !! Check them after every run and re-loctite as necessary, or just get the MJS back plate.

These are just a few things I have learned in my 13 years experience with nitro and gas motors ( and lots and lots of screw ups!!!). I really like my EK-4 and hope to catch any problems before they happen ( I have to tighten many screws up after running this and on my 1/8th scale buggy, it's all about maintenance) .Have fun with your truck! :D

[RRRoamer]

Originally posted by ronin8451
I just wanted to post an opinion about some of the problems people are having with this engine:
1) I see guys swithing from low nitro to high nitro then back to low, this is a no no ! After break in is started, never go back to a lower nitro content! Your motor will go into detonation and blow!

2)These are "ringed" motors, not ABC . These need 20% oil, so either add oil to your car fuel, run the popular "break-in fuel" that already has high oil content, or run heli fuel.

3) "Ringed" motors take gallons, not tanks to break-in properly, so don't run 10 tanks then hammer on it. Baby it for a gallon or so, but I've seen helicopters run best after 3 or 4 gallons!

<snip>

These are just a few things I have learned in my 13 years experience with nitro and gas motors ( and lots and lots of screw ups!!!). I really like my EK-4 and hope to catch any problems before they happen ( I have to tighten many screws up after running this and on my 1/8th scale buggy, it's all about maintenance) .Have fun with your truck! :D

1) Bull. NOTHING fundamentally changes when you go from low nitro fuel to high nitro and back down to low nitro. As you change your nitro, you DO have change your jetting to keep it running right. I have a Picco .15 in my RC10GT that has gone from 45% down to 20% (for a test) and back up to 45% all in one day. I ran several tanks of 20% while testing. I DID have to tune the needles when I switched to low nitro (and back), but there was NO problem with the engine. If you are going to convence me that changing from high nitro to low (or visversa) is a problem, you better have a LOT of solid facts to back it up. And "A friend of mine knows someone who heard..." isn't a fact.

2) Right on the money. Part of the problems people have with nitro cars is that this is the first nitro engine they have ever had. When most folks get in to airplanes or helicopters, they usually have the help of folks with a lot of experince with those types of engines and can show them how to set them up and what to look and listen for. A LOT of people buy their first nitro powered car and they never get any real help with setting it up and learning how to operate it until after they have already damaged it.

3) Agreed

Oh, and as an RC heli guy myself, I too have come to love Loctite!

[Mike Sneed]

Has anyone had problems with the round hex end of the starter shaft ROUNDING OFF when starting the EK-4? Well so have I. There is just too much torq bieng put on the rounded edges of the shaft. After about 20 or so starts and you need another starter shaft and that bites!!

DO THIS.
1. You need the factory starter form the engine (for parts)
so I hope you have already upgraded to the MSJ kit....

2. Loosen the two allen srews that hold the 6mm hex input
(the part that you stick the starter shaft into) and pull it off the shaft.

3. Find a round piece of steel rod, to put the 6mm input on. I used an old screw driver and broke the handle off. also take the two allen screws out and stick a marker in thair holes to mark the round piece of steel (shaft).

4. Pull the 6mm hex piece off the shaft so that all you have is a round rod with two marker dots on it.

5. Grind off the dots to make a flat spot for the allen set screws to seat against. (so the rount rod don't spin)

6. Put the 6mm hex pices back on the shaft, Line up the flat spots with the holes, Squirt some loctite in the holes, Put the set screws in and torq it down.

7. Take a standard 6mm allen wrench (not the rounded tip) and cut a 1/2 inch piece out of it.

8. Insert you 1/2 in piece into the 6mm input shaft that you just made (not the truck) the factory one on the shaft you built.

9. Insert the homemade starter shaft through the wheelie bar, Walk it through the axle (a bit of a tight fit) and then insert the 6mm end into the motor (its a straight shot so no more rounding it off)!!!!

I hpoe this help everyone as much as it helps me!!!!!!:D :D :D

[Mike Sneed]

homemade starter shaft...

[Mike Sneed]

sweet .......

[Mike Sneed]

SteveP, That makes sence, I havent thought of that thanks. So does that mean go all alloy? so nothing breaks:D :D :D lol

[Mike Sneed]

Sorry........SteveP on page 26 of this thread. Man this thread is huge!:D

[Mike Sneed]

I heard a rumor of a fuel injected air plane......I hope this idea can be put on the EK-4's pro .70!!!! have you guys heard of it yet?

[GiZZeRR]

:(
Well first impressions are not looking good! No I'm not talking about the EK4, I'm talking about you guys:rolleyes:
I came here looking for some info/facts on this great looking truck and all I find is a bunch of kids squabling about how fast it doesn't or does go! Maybe YOU are just a bunch of kids. I'll check some other posts but if this is a sample of the forums here I'll be going else where. I though R/C nitro was suppose to be about having fun? Jeesus:rolleyes: :rolleyes:

GiZZeRR

[hooligan]

GiZZeRR> if you missed all the info parts (lots of it) in between maybe you should real all threads about the ek4 again. :(

good luck in finding a better source for info then the rcca forums.

[Coconut]

I've owned about 50 ringed engines over the years and they are in fact easier to set up and break in than a tight non-ringed engine. The ring breaking problem;poor starter shaft design and lack of correct needle setting is Thu8nder Tigers fault. Thunder Tiger is not know in Heli or airplanes for their quailty engines. What I think you see here is a engine of lessor quailty and improper field testing. But if you look at the total cost of the truck with a .70 engine; you don't expect top quality but would think they would have done more field testing. From what I seen with two Heli and vehicle experienced friends who bought them the buyers were pretty much the field testers. As far as your having to run so rich thats has nothing to do with the ringed engine design but for cooling. A tight non-ringed engine is much harder to break in than a quality ringed engine. So don't be so hard on yourselfs and others guys.

[BIG-J]

If you can believe it, this truck has me so intrigued that I read all 27 pages of this thread!

Anyhow, to change the subject on something other than engine problems...how does this think handle?

I've been out of the RC scene for several years and have been thinking of getting a MT (I had this thought when the Tmaxx came out).

Anyhow, I (like most red blooded Americans) like the EK4 because of it's powerhouse engine. However, I want a truck that I won't have to run after every minute to flip back on it's tires.

From the videos I've seen, this thing is so ballistic it handles like crap.

Please someone correct me if I'm wrong.

[Mt killer]

I can only compare it to my motorcycle experiences. I started out with a honda 650 night hawk it was nice and I could hit 100 mph in a short amount of time. It handled all of it's power with not problem. But then after a minor wreck I totalled the Honda and found a GSXR 1100 bore out to 1220 cc's with over sized pistons polished heads with racing valves. In other words a over powered speed machine. Let's just say I can pull the front wheels up in every gear! Can I take my Gixxer around curves better then the night hawk? yes with out question. I just have 165 horses to back up anything I want to do. Sure I have exercise control when feeding the beast but that is understood when I get on it. The Ek4 can be controlled if you practice how much throttle to give her. She does offer to much if you want to do that! if you havn't driven one you just have to. I tell you after one ride on the Gixxer you will never put your leg over any thing less powerful. The EK4 has the same effect. :cool:

[BIG-J]

Well that's the answer I wanted to hear. I just wanted to ensure this thing wasn't like a funny car (straight line wonder).

Because the whole purpose of a MT is to be versatile and manage a wide degree of terrain.

Think I'll run by my LHS and see if they have one on display.

Thanks for the input.

btw, does anyone know if they race these things anywhere yet? Or have a class for them, since they broke the .21 mold?

[ronin8451]

We are racing them at our track, Spring Valley R/C Raceway, here in Weatherford ,Texas. Well , at least we call it a race, as I don't have much competition from the Monster Pirates and T-Maxxes. I lapped the field of 9 only using 1/4 throttle and taking every double and triple on the track! This beast handles as good as a buggy if you set it up right and use a high quality steering servo ( at least 150 oz. of torque ).:eek:

[BIG-J]

Well, I thought I'd share my Local Hobby Store experience with all of you...since it was SO amusing.

Let me inform you of a little history prior:

Several years ago we had a local hobby store. It was independently owned. The owner was quite versed with all aspects of the RC world (car, truck, nitro, planes, you name it).

This was the first store in the area that actually offered racing. So after a short amount of time the news spread like wild fire.

After a few years the owners mother past away and he was just too distraught to continue business. So he liquidated everything and our RC track was no more.

When this happened I pretty much hung up my car remote and dwindled on and off with an RC airplane.

Well, after a few more years went by and no one to step up to the plate (regarding opening another hobby store) a big league franchise came to town (HobbyTown USA). I'm going to mention their names, because I feel everyone should know of my experience with them.

Anyhow I was very excited that this new store opened...especially with the times changing and more young adults being interested in RC hobbies (more and better competition).

Well, I've been surfing and reading through these forums trying to decide what type of RC I may buy and start all over with.

So I decided to call HobbyTown USA...I spoke with what sounded like a very elderly man. I asked him if they had the EK4 in stock or knew if they'd be carrying it.

Needless to say he was clueless, he didn't even know it was a truck! I kind of blew it off, figured "well he's old and probably isn't in the scene". So I told him I'd just stop in.

Well just this weekend I stopped by and a young employee was standing at the counter (late teens / early 20's).

I asked him "Do you carry or plan on carrying the EK4 nitro truck?

His reply "We primarily sell Traxxas...we don't carry Duratrax stuff."

My jaw pretty much fell to the ground...Duratrax? ***? I informed him it's made by ThunderTiger and I received a deer in headlights look. The big ????????????'s were shooting from the top of his head.

I said, it's only one of the largest manufactures of RC airplane engines / kits..of which you sell here.

Then followed the unintelligent rambling backtrack technique of which I just turned and walked away disgusted.

A few minutes later I overheard him "attempting" to tell someone how awesome the T-Maxx is (no offense to T-Maxx) but when you can't explain why something is awesome what's the point? Especially when they were charging $419 for the kit!!!

Am I being too harsh here? Or is it common for hobby stores these days to be filled with blithering $5/hr idiots?

I was just so pi$$ed off at the whole experience...I said to myself..."With people / stores like this how do they stay in business against someone like Tower Hobbies!?"

Sorry for the rant, but talk about disappointing. When I used to race I could walk into a Hobby Store not knowing the exact name of a part, and just by explaining it, the person behind the counter knew exactly what I was talking about.

I see that as difficult as translating Egyptian hieroglyphics these days!

End Rant.

[DezRunner]

I know what you're talking about. Needed a new engine for my 10 GT so I went to the only local hobby store which is Hobby People. I needed some fuel so i picked up some airplane fuel which was 20% nitro and 20% oil. When I got to the counter the kid asked me if I was going to use the fuel in the 15CV I was buying. To avoid an argument I said "no it's for one of my planes". Out of curiosity I asked him why airplane fuel like this wouldn't work. He told me it had the wrong oil content and no "special additives" like the car fuel. I asked him what the right oil content was for this engine and he said 8%. I almost started laughing but didn't. I've been into radio control for 23 years flying airplanes, driving cars, and running boats and have never run into someone this ignorant behind the counter. I went back a couple days later for some tires and overheard a customer talking to another kid about returning a servo he bought. Seems as though he came in to get a steering servo for his truck. Told them what he had and asked what would be the best for his truck. They sold him a coreless standard output servo. When he put in it wouldn't turn the wheels so he brought it back. The last thing I heard when I left was that they were'nt going to give him an exchange or refund and he should have known what he needed. He was getting a little hot.

[hdcchrome]

Anyone have this?

Looking for hop ups.

Looking for replacement parts.

[Possumbot]

another case of non search threads, there is a huge tt ek4 thread going right now, if its not visible search for it.

[vzla]

Can anyone tell were can I get replacement parts for the EK4?

I am specifically looking for the front and rear Suspension Plates and front and rear body mounts.

Thanks in advance.

vzla

[vzla]

They can be aftermarket parts or OEM parts.

I just need to get the above mentionned parts.

Just in case:

Front and rear Suspension Plate as well as the front and rear body mounts.

Thanks again,

vzla

[ronin8451]

You can get parts online at www.nationalrc.com .
I have the ergal servo saver plate and upper arm mounts. The upper arm mounts should be the first upgrade to replace the stock plastic ones. The second upgrade is aluminum shocks!! Throw the plastic ones in the trash, the rod ends break very easily if you get some good airtime ( I regularly take the doubles and triples at our track and fly for around 20ft, no T-maxx yet has taken all the jumps I have at the track!!) . www.autohausrc.com has the "fridge" head and MJS starter plate. www.triplehracing.com has shock towers and other chassis upgrades too. Hope this helps!!:D

[vzla]

Thanks Ronin, will be looking at those sites.

[ntrotom106]

grow up

[baileym]

Originally posted by ntrotom106
Hey guys both t-maxx and monster pirate suck NITRO QUAKE IS 10 TIMES FASTER SO QUIT COMPLANING AND BUY ONE OF THESE INSTEAD

Thank you for providing us another example of why stupid people should not have children.

[ntrotom106]

GROW UP, you're about to lose your posting priveleges. Re-read the forum rules, and if you have a problem with them, email me or Bob Hastings. bobh@airage.com or stephenb@airage.com

[baileym]

Bailey, the best way to deal with people like this is to not respond. Let's keep the flame-wars off the boards, ok?

[32sport]

I have found that by pressing `submit reply` in quick succession results in your message being posted twice

[BUTTY]

i see you guy`s are still having trouble with your ek4 `s , i have read a few more threads & have come to the same conclusion as six month`s ago what a load of junk this truck is, i am so glad i traded mine in for a t-maxx, 6 months of trouble free motoring new hop ups etc with no hassle , all you guy`s seem to be doing is still arguing why you are blowing engines, one person say`s this & another say`s that nobody really know`s why ,come on chap`s take my advice go get your self a decent truck & have some fun
martin

[ronin8451]

BUTTY:
I don't think you should be so quick to talk, I've been telling about how mine doesn't break. There is always a T-maxx breaking at our track , but after 4+ gallons thru my EK4 it's only ate a ring and pinion . After proper shimming (2 1/2 gallons ago) it has yet to give any trouble. Do you ever see a Top Fuel dragster go down the track every time with no parts breaking? This thing's power to weight ratio puts it in that league!:D :cool:

[Mt killer]

These two trucks are like apples and oranges please do not compair them. My EK4 has never had a problem had it since the first of the year! had my maxx three years and totally tricked out. love em both:D

[vzla]

Easy question for all you EK4 owners:

How well does this truck handle in the air? And what about the landings?

I have seen numerous clips from T-Maxxes flying off ramps, jumping over cars, etc... I am not comparing both trucks, I would however like to get some info. on how his truck behaves in the air.

I mean, other than doing wheelies, what else can be done with it?

Any idea of where I could find clips or pictures of this monster flying?

Thanks

vzla

[vzla]

Hey guys, I know that there are some of you with jump experiences, care to share how the EK4 handles in the air?

[Mt killer]

I have to admit when I first got my Ek4 I said to myself that this thing cost way to much to put into the air. But that has since went out of the window. I run at a old BMX track and I have to say that this truck handles like a cat. It almost never goes end over end like alot of the other monster trucks that I have run. You canot get it on it's back so you cannot turn it over! even with that huge motor on board the EK4 is perfectly balanced. I was not happy with the stock Shock oil so I replaced it with 35 wt and it handles in the air like a dream. let's just say I clear the camel humps in one jump and push through that imediate curve with no problem! :cool:

[rawdy rider]

From all ive managed to gather,ive come to the conclusion that,
1.The Ek-4 is not for beginners
2.The reason for the above is that its an overpowered brute and has not been totally sorted out by TT yet.Thats why lots of ppl are complaining.E.g. the engine is a three needle affair.Most guys (kids) dont know how to handle it.Also you have to use that power knowing what you are doing.Cant just throw it about like an electric!I am going to get one because i know i can take care of it.So please any kids out there with a rich daddy and no experience and sense,one word ......dont!!
3.If anyone really wants to learn about the EK-4 go to this guys site he knows his stuff and seems like an accomplished modeller:
www.faxonwell.com/rc.
4.As far as the speed of the thing is concerned its pretty fast but for those of us who think that a .70 powered machine should go faster than 39-40 mph i think TT should install taller gears or/make it a two or three speed.That engine after all has the power to haul that machine at much taller gearing!
5.Personally i think that size wise the truck should be a little bigger too,with a bigger wheel base,that would give it much more stability.

[Mt killer]

Hello Rawdy,
I agree with you on almost all points. But I have to say that this truck has no problem with stability. I replaced stock shock oil with 35wt and my mind is totally changed about the lack of good shocks. I would however like metal ones but. The stockers do well with a oil replacement. Just my twe presidents. :D

[jeepdude_1]

If this question has been asked earler sorry, But has anyone tryed to use A driffrent engine ? My MSJ starter berring went bad so I used my OS .21 RZ99 engine to see how it would work. I like the torq of the TH engine. Has onyone tryed to adapt an OS Heli engine ? :D ;) :p

[rawdy rider]

I have been wondering too if anyone has ever changed the engine on their EK-4 with a smaller engine eg. a .46 OS heli engine or .32 H,or maybe even a car.21?
The .46 sounds like it would be ideally suited to run and tame the beast.Of course theres no substitute for...........PPPPOOOOOWWWWWEEEERRRRRRRRRRRRrrrrrr rrr!!!!!
;)

[nitro tiger]

Hey guy's long time since i have been on!! hey guy's i can get my hands on the .90 ttr heli i hear a rumor that it is the same crankcase so starters etc will switch over is this true if so i am getting this motors please help i just blew mine up and i still don't know why it happen. i was at the lhs store and just said man this truck is running great and i ran it that afternoon and boom. i guess i jinxed myself and i had it running so rich for protection. i posted pics there out there already. plase help with this motor deal!!!! .70=:( .90=:eek:

[NitroOwnsYou]

Originally posted by rawdy rider
From all ive managed to gather,ive come to the conclusion that,
1.The Ek-4 is not for beginners
2.The reason for the above is that its an overpowered brute and has not been totally sorted out by TT yet.Thats why lots of ppl are complaining.E.g. the engine is a three needle affair.Most guys (kids) dont know how to handle it.Also you have to use that power knowing what you are doing.Cant just throw it about like an electric!I am going to get one because i know i can take care of it.So please any kids out there with a rich daddy and no experience and sense,one word ......dont!!
3.If anyone really wants to learn about the EK-4 go to this guys site he knows his stuff and seems like an accomplished modeller:
www.faxonwell.com/rc.
4.As far as the speed of the thing is concerned its pretty fast but for those of us who think that a .70 powered machine should go faster than 39-40 mph i think TT should install taller gears or/make it a two or three speed.That engine after all has the power to haul that machine at much taller gearing!
5.Personally i think that size wise the truck should be a little bigger too,with a bigger wheel base,that would give it much more stability.

BTW That site has a forum up and running! Come by and say HI! Also I know Jack (website owner)personally, and we have been ironing alot of the issues out with these things, and you can see my diff fixes, and Jacks 2 speed and other mods there!

Jr

[Figit090]

is the new limeted edition EK4 out yet? If so, then is there anyone who HAS one? Or info on it?:confused:

[saiyanmanicomio]

If you got to uses a special starter for the 70 engine, what you will uses to start a 90 engine? A real car ignition system!:p

[TCON]

Easy question for all you EK4 owners:

How well does this truck handle in the air? And what about the landings?

I have seen numerous clips from T-Maxxes flying off ramps, jumping over cars, etc... I am not comparing both trucks, I would however like to get some info. on how his truck behaves in the air.

I mean, other than doing wheelies, what else can be done with it?

Any idea of where I could find clips or pictures of this monster flying?

Thanks

vzla


Have you seen this video?
http://www.sauron.no/videos/EK-4%20Abuse.mpg

Tim

[RC Jack]

As far as the starting system for the .90, it will be using a .70 to start it. :D

[Sgt_Ek4]

Here's some

AutoHaus R/C (http://www.autohausrc.com/)

Triple H Racing (http://www.triplehracing.com/page2.html)

[tm4347]

Hi everyone! I seem to have stripped my pinion gear and my crown gear out of the rear end of my EK-4. I think those are the correct part names, basically the main drive gears for the back diff.. I took it apart and they really don't look that bad. It would run fine for a while but I kept hearing a couple clicks on takeoff until my drive joint would get pushed off leaving me in front drive only. Has anybody else had this happen, if so what parts do I need and where can I get them? What grease will I need to use? Any tips would be greatly appreciated, thanks.

[RC Jack]

Well, tm4, actually they are called a ring & pinion. Call ACE and you can send it back to them and they will replace it for you and provide the "mod" to the case, a hole drilled straight thru and long bolts installed. When you get it back, you night also consider a "girdle" to keep the sides from expanding. See attached, highly detailed, sophisticated drawing. With drawings like this, I should be designing buildings!:D :D
Hope this helps!



http://www.radiocontrolzone.com/forums/showthread.php?threadid=89548

[RC Jack]

I just ordered a small order from autohaus, piston rings and rear CV's. should be here 2moro.

Hi, Sarge.

[NitroOwnsYou]

Actually RC Jack you are wrong. Crown gear is a proper term for the gear that is bolted to the diff case. Alot of RC companies call them Crown gears over ring gears. they are both the same, but he was 100% right in his terminology. I just dont want to confuse him any more than he is!

I posted a link to my fix and it has been working 100% for 2 gallons of full orture!

http://www.faxonwell.com/midmadn/forum/viewthread.php?tid=212

Jr

[RC Jack]

Then I stand corrected, Nitro. I thought "crown" gear was a local term. In the automotive world, it's a "ring" gear. I''ll try to remember that.

[tm4347]

Jack and Jr., thanks for the help, I do have a few more questions if you don't mind. I was wondering if a torsen diff. would work in Jr.'s ofna fix, I broke my neck racing moto-X and the less stuff I have to walk people through the building process the better. What about the ofna#10605 or the fioroni storm traction torsen diff. for the EB4? Do I want to take the time to send my stripped gears and cases to ace or should I keep my cases, I think I could do their mod myself with a little help. That way I could try Jr.'s fix, besides what good will another set of TTR's gears do me anyway. Is MSJ really making a solution, if so any idea when?
Jr. if I understand your fix correctly there is really no major difficult procedures just swap out the diff.'s and pinions right? Thanks for the help again.

[RC Jack]

tm4, (for short), I can't tell you much, if anything, about the Torsen, as I have never used them. I do, however, like what they do and that's provide a limited slip action of sorts. And what fits what, I couldn't tell ya.

As far as sending your case(s) to ACE: Nah, just drill 'em out yourself and save the postage to buy screws and nuts. Unless they are broke. From what I understand, they'll replace the gearset as well. If I were you, I'd find out for sure first. Seems that the, I really hesitate to call it POLICY, cuz it isn't, changes with the weather! I wanted to send my engine back because of the ring and ACE told me it has a 90 warrantee! My info with the truck sez 3 years on the engine!! I sent them another email, they said 90 days-truck, 3 years-heli. I wonder what the weather is going to be like tomorrow?

[NitroOwnsYou]

tm4347,

I Have run torsens in my buggy's, and they are nice, but they do unload like a normal diff. It takes a little more time of free wheeling (no traction or tire in air) to unload, but they still will. With MT tires, there is alot more traction than a buggy tires, and so for the need of a torsen is really not needed IMO. I think its alot of money to spend on them where the difference wont be really noticeable. Also for the cost of one Torsen, you could do both f/r diffs. As in ease of install, it fits right in. No mods at all to fit them. Just build the diff, and replace pinion and diff. Anything else I can help with, just let me know!

Jr

[hdcchrome]

Thanks for the links guys:cool:

Any pointers???? I just chewed a clutch to pieces!!!!!

[RC Jack]

hdchrome, Just replace it. The thing that seems to killin' the clutch is running at low speed, where this type of clutch slips, generating very high temps. If you can minimize the low speed, it should last longer. If you're handy, you could try making an aluminum clutch from 6061 or 7075 aluminum.

[hdcchrome]

I have never seen this type of clutch or have it do what it did before. Is it special for this truck only???

The two clutch bearing completely fell apart. The inside of the bearings were fused to the shaft, everything else was GONE and the clutch bell fell off....

DAMB....too much power I guess. I would like to see what clutch they put on the .90!!!!

[RC Jack]

hd, the best this I could recommend is to get a new clutch and use it for a pattern.

And yes, it is an EK specific clutch, tho it might be used in helis made by TT. did you manage to get the bearings out/off?

I don't believe it's the power as much as it is the heat, which is generated by slipping, usually at low speed. Also, if the clutch spring is too stiff/short/strong, it would slip at high speed as well, and with the manufacturing variances on this truck, I'd go with something like a T-maxx clutch spring.

The .90 clutch will probably be the same as will the drivetrain(!)...my opinion.

[hdcchrome]

I ordered all new clutch/bell/spring/bearings last night. I have a friend going overseas to survey a factory (currently closed) that is capable of manufacturing items like the clutch and just about any part I can throw out there in any material. I am going to see what it would cost me to make up some clutches in aluminum.

interested?

[wetspot]

Hi Iam new to rc anything I plan to buy a ek4 truck only because it has the largest motor of all that I saw if this is wrong or if there is a truck with a bigger motor in please let me know i plan to have fun for now but I do like to race or hill climb in a gravel pit near my home stricky nitro batteries won't even come close to climbing these hills also I am looking for the best place to purchase this type of products on line any info will be helpful thank you:

[RC Jack]

wetspot, (I ain't touchin' that one!:D ), the EK is not your typical truck. Even tho it has a .70, it's a ringed heli engine, which means it has special precautions for break in, and instead of a few tanks that it takes to break-in an ABC engine, (.12, .15. .21 etc.), this one takes at least a gallon, and VERY RICH! The fuel can be 20% Nitro, BUT MUST have at least 20% oil. I've been running Cool Power 30% Nitro, 'cuz no LHS in my area stocks the 20% Nitro yet. The lowest place on the 'net that I have seen is: http://blake.prohosting.com/~edge1/rconline.html

WS, don't think that this truck doesn't have it's problems, it does! Like a drivertrain that is made for a .21! An aluminum gearcase would fix that. The gears, the ring & pinion, are "fine" tooth, should be "coarse" tooth. The clutch tends to get....TOASTY from slippin at low speed, some to the point of disintergration!

Also, the starter that comes with it is junk! The replacement is an aftermarket unit from MJS. The stock cooling head should be replaced as well for better cooling, again, from MJS.

These are the main concerns or problems with the EK. If you decide to get it, let me know. Been there, done that...with this truck.....and still doing it!

Here's a link to mine, tho, some things have been redesigned and added: http://www.radiocontrolzone.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=85334

To say the least, this truck IS, make that, was, a challenge, now it's enjoyable!!

ps. It's still a challenge in some areas!

[hdcchrome]

RC Jack

Where did you get that roll cage and wheely bar?!?!?! I must have one!!!!!!!!!

[hdcchrome]

RC Jack

OK and that metal gear box!!!! Please do tell!!!!!

[RC Jack]

Made 'em! Ah, make that 2 metal gearboxes, T6 aluminum. The cage is from New Era, for a Monster Pirate.

As for the wheelie bars, I'll be makin' 'em in a month or so along with..........

What I need to find out is if there is any interest in them.

[bigblock T-maxx]

Any one know where to get metal giff gears for the Ek4 thats my problem.:confused:

[hdcchrome]

RC Jack
I am interested in it ALL. Send me pricing please.

[RC Jack]

Originally posted by bigblock T-maxx
Any one know where to get metal giff gears thats my problem.

BigBlock, metal diff gears for what?

[bigblock T-maxx]

Ek4

[RC Jack]

BigBlock, are you talking about the spider gears, which ARE the DIFF GEARS or the Ring & Pinion? In any event, you can get them at www.autohausrc.com

[tm4347]

Hello everyone! I received my ofna rear diff and gears today, I also bought a torsen to try first for ease(I'm not lazy just paralyzed). My question then is when you speak of shimming, exactly what and where should I shimmy?

Jack, I just saw those pic's of your truck, keep up the good work and thanks for sharing the knowledge.

[tm4347]

Hello everyone! I received my ofna rear diff and gears today, I also bought a torsen to try first for ease(I'm not lazy just paralyzed). My question then is when you speak of shimming, exactly what and where should I shimmy?

Jack, I just saw those pic's of your truck, keep up the good work and thanks for sharing the knowledge.

Sorry if you had to see ths twice.

[RC Jack]

tm4, the shims are used on the ring & pinion gear. If there is too much side to side movement of the ring gear assembly, then it needs to be shimmed, preferably on the left side of the case, which involves taking the unit almost completely apart. The pinion gear, if it needs to be shimmed, should be shimmed just in back of the gear, between the pinion & the bearing. Now, before any shims are added, and b4 you take it apart, determine just how much play there is between the ring & pinion and shim those 1 or 2 places accordingly. The end result that you are looking for is .002-.004" play between the ring & pinion and less for side to side. If you don't have a "mike", then it's about the same as a "hair".

For shims, you can buy some shim-stock or make them yourself from a coke can....or a Budweiser can if yer over 21.:D
Who said you were lazy? Sorry to hear you're paralyzed!

[RC Jack]

Just replied to you dilemna, tm4, at : http://www.radiocontrolzone.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=81000

[NitroOwnsYou]

Originally posted by hdcchrome
I have never seen this type of clutch or have it do what it did before. Is it special for this truck only???

The two clutch bearing completely fell apart. The inside of the bearings were fused to the shaft, everything else was GONE and the clutch bell fell off....

DAMB....too much power I guess. I would like to see what clutch they put on the .90!!!!

Actually its a pretty popular style slide clutch on the european buggys. Its just something new to us americans.

[CJ-5]

Hey guys I don't own a EK-4 but I do read the posts. I have a few nitro Mt's. Anyways I was wondering does anyone have a engine block they want to sell. I don't need anything just the block itself. I am looking to make a set of mounts to adapt the 70 to another vehicle. I can be contacted at an email addy I will leave. I know the trouble I am bringing to the driveline of my other truck but I want to try it, I am aware of the significant mods to it also.

alexios@maxxtraxx.com

[RC Jack]

CJ, trying to find a used .70 is gonna be a challenge!!! I know of one guy who's been lookin' for a month or so and not having any luck. Any powerful engine that's "truck specific" is going to be just this side of impossible to find! Good luck in you hunt.

Have you considered buying a new one?

[CJ-5]

Im just lookin for the engine block. I dont need any of the internals. I don't really want to buy a new engine because if it doesnt work then I'm not out my money. Can you buy just the block by itself?

[RC Jack]

I take it, CJ, that you already have the internals? Try giving these guys a call: http://www.acehobby.com/acehobby/

[CJ-5]

Nope I don't have the internales. I just like to know something is gonna work before I go and spend a ton of money. I don't know if the mounts will work because I may have to build a new chassis. I know for sure no one has tried this engine in my truck. It is just too insane.

[RC Jack]

Well, CJ, the way I'd do it is just go out and buy the .70 and commit yourself to putting it in. Where there's a will, there's a way.

[tm4347]

Hello everyone! Well I fixed my rear diff. using the Ofna parts and was all excited to try it out, so I started it up and now it appears my clutch has gone south. Can you guys tell me the parts I need for the best set-up and where to buy them please. Is it possible to change the gearing, they put way too much low end in this thing. Taller(pinion) gears would put less stress on the poor drive-line and smooth out the power band. I don't know how you would mesh different gears with everything being solid mounted. Any help would be great, have a great day!

[RC Jack]

I've been using the same clutch for the last 12 gallons. The only things that seem to burn the clutch out is low speed running, where the clutch isn't quite engaged, but, not released, either, in other words, slipping. While it's slipping, it's also generating heat and that's the worst enemy. Same thing on a fullsize car or truck, if you ride the clutch at low speed, it will slip and get hot. Changing to a taller gear would/could make it worse by taking longer to completely engage. If anything a shorter gear would/could help and allowing the engine's RPMs to engage the clutch faster. If you do it this way, a speed trans with taller gears would bring the speed back up. You could also try a clutch spring with less tension; that would allow the clutch's rate of engagement to increase.

I haven't decided on whether I want a 2 spd or 3 spd yet in mine cuz I can't seem to get the manufacturers to tell me if their 3spd trans will hold up. The OFNA 2 spd is almost a direct bolt in, BTW.

[hdcchrome]

RC Jack,

You seem to know what you are talking about, so I have a question for you:D

I keep blowing clutch bearings. For the first Gal of gas, no problem, but then one day BOOM….bearings disintegrated!

I have replaced the clutch bell, bearings, and shoes...but still the bearings meltdown!!!!!! I just don't get it. NONE of my other RC cars and trucks have this clutch problem:mad:

Any advise:confused: :confused: :confused: :confused:

[RC Jack]

HD, there is a large shim that goes between the clutch itself and the bearing end of the bell; this is not only a shim, but doubles as a heat shield to protect the bearings; you may not have one there. Heat is the major enemy of bearings, followed by friction. If I remember, Traxxas 5x10x4 bearings are a better replacement: http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/WTI0001P?Q=1&I=LXJK85

Just make sure you have a heatshield that isolates the bearings from the clutch.
I'm not sure of the thickness, but, it's only a couple of thousandths by 11/16". You could make this out of steel shim stock.

[hdcchrome]

RCJACK,

Thanks for the info. I DID have a shim, but burned it up too :) I don't have any scrap to make my own :( Any ideas where to buy a shim?

[RC Jack]

You could get steel shim stock from just about any machine shop or machine shop supply house. A machine shop would be your best bet as you only need a small amount, maybe a 3"- 6" piece.

Also, if you're burning up your clutch & bearings repeatedly, you could have other problems, like alignment. If the bell is tight against the spur-gear, you'll be putting undo pressure on the bearings and burning them out. Set it up so you have about .002" between the bell & spur-gear, (.002" is about the same as a hair), taking any and all pressure from the bearings.

[ronin8451]

Also make sure you "de-glaze" the clutch shoes often and clean and roughen the clutch bell before re-assembly. The best bearings to use are metal shielded for the EK-4 clutch since the teflon shields can't take the heat and disentigrate. Soak them in a little mineral spirits to get the grease out (the grease will heat up and ooze out and soak the shoes and ruin them), blow them dry and put 2 drops of Royal oil bearing lube on them and spin to distribute it. Lube them once a week if you run a lot.:D

[hdcchrome]

Thanks for the advice guys. I was using teflon sealed!!!!!!! and you are correct, they fall apart.

Has anyone found a place to buy ceramic bearings? Or have any feedback on using them?

Also, no shops around here to get heat sheild material :(, anyonw know of an on line place?

[ek4ishardtotune]

Originally posted by MBX-4er'
since when did top speed every matter with monster trucks??:confused: :confused: :confused:

Jason the top speed of monster trucks will always be slow cause of the power to weight ratio :cool: big engine small truck super fast !big truck big engine normal speed!

[mserradebrito]

Guys guys guys !!!
Go to this link and check this trucks with 2 speed and all the rest of the **** the guy has done on it and the videos awesome...
no more comments ....
http://www.faxonwell.com/RC/rcindex.html and it has all the informations about the needed transformation, so Enjoy..

[pistole]

Could someone please post something about the 0.70 Version 2 EK 4 which TTR is coming out with ( which , I believe , corrects the defects in the original version ....... ) .


Has anyone tested it ?

Best regards and safe runnings.

[pistole]

fantastic !!

I had a look at it today at my LHS ...... that 0.70 engine is huge. That new "COKE CAN SIZE" cylinder head makes every other truck seem like a toy.....

They gave me a quote , I'm thinking about it...... augh ... choices-
choices......

Bye and safe runnings.

[alvin1]

apparently,the new version is called an ek4 v2,and yes it does look fantastic,although i have only seen a picture so far.i called amerang ,my uk distributor,and they new nothing about it whatsoever:eek: pistole,was there any price differance between the old version and the new version?

[pistole]

sorry , I do not know about the price difference ( if any ) since I :

(A) only just got into Nitro ( please see the TTR DT 10 thread on the Off Road Forum ) , and

(B) did not ask about the actual difference in price since the old model is no longer available here.


Anyhow , the quote was for , about , USD$400 for the car (minus radio) ............ I am still thinking about it.

DOES ANYONE here know anything about this New Version ? Do forward some feedback , it will be much appreciated.

Thanks and safe runnings.


NB :- My DT 10 is going great , by the way..........

[pistole]

I have just bought the new Version 2 TTR EK-4 !

The store had one and she really looked sweet .......... will report on the progress of that truck as soon as possible.

The tyres are HUGE ! The engine ( 0.70 ) with that new cylinder head is totally awesome.

I think that this a definitely a keeper ..... the only r/c monster truck in production with such a large engine in place.

Anyhow , I already have a TTR DT 10 2wd Nitro stadium truck and from the way I drive , I fairly baby my cars .... so I'm not too worried about wear and tear ( comes with the territory , I guess ).

I am thinking of using a cordless drill (with a torque adjustment ) to start the monster , would this be adviseable ?

Does ANYONE out there also have one of these Version 2 trucks ?

Please let me know how's your progress .........

Thanks and safe runnings.

NB : My DT is going really strong.... she shall not be foresaken.

[RC Jack]

While I don't have the newer version, I did have the older one, all tricked out in alloy....the only EK4 with alloy gearcases months before MJS released theirs! After tricking this truck out, I had no problems with it, ever! Now, there are some people that BEAT their trucks and I mean beat them, but, it's a mechanical contrivance and like anything mechanical, if you beat it, it will break. Some people can't understand this theory. As long as you take care of it, it will take care of you!

As far as using a cordless with a clutch, absolutley, at least a 12v model, preferably, a brand name. Besides, you can always use it around the house.

[pistole]

hey , thanks for the response. I am glad to hear that you're having a good time with your EK4 - I remember those g/boxes of yours , they look absolutely great ( I cannot even begin to imagine the amount of work that went into them..... ).


Would TTR have sorted out the problems with the starter shaft attachment behind the engine ? I understand that the Version 2 has a new design with an o-ring seal .....


How's your fuel consumption like ? Can you actually SEE the fuel level dropping in the tank ?


The first thing ( other than to loctite every nut ) is to fashion a roll-cage fit to protect the car --- any ideas RC Jack ?


Thanks and safe runnings.

[RC Jack]

I don't know if TTR "sorted" out the starter problems or whether they just copied the MJS unit, haven't heard too much on the version 2. Sorry.

Fuel consumption?:D :D :D :D Sorry for laughing, but, I wouldn't go entering the EK in the Mobil Economy Run, if you get my point.:D I don't know if you can actually see the fuel level decrease, but it does suck up some fuel! There's supposed to be a larger tank coming out, but, I haven't heard anything in a while.

A rollcage from a Monster Pirate works well, though, you may have to modify the shock towers some. newera.com has them, they are pricey, but, they are strong as hell and it's made from 4130 chrome-moly tubing, the same stuff dragster frames are made with!! There is a rollcage designed for the EK, but it's design limits what body you can use, in other words, a Blazer/Suburban type only.
http://www.extremercparts.com

LOCKTITE! LOCKTITE! LOCKTITE!

[pistole]

hey , great to hear from you.

I am chasing the store to complete fitting the Radio so that I can take her home ...... will report on the progress later.

What strength of LOCKTITE should I use on the various screws ? I am a bit tentative about using the strongest blend , what with the possible need to loosen the screw(s) later......... your views and experience would be very much appreciated.

About your receiver batteries , what specs are they ? Strong enough for the steering servo ? The store warned me about the power drain of the extra torque steering servo resulting in throttling problems ( ie the classic throttle blip at full steering lock).

Thanks alot for your input , most appreciated.

Bye and safe runnings.

[pistole]

do you have a comparison ( pic or otherwise ) of the old starter unit versus the MSJ unit ?

What are the differences ?

Thanks and safe runnings.