RCPD 4WD Off-Road Buggy (TC3"O")

[perez1410]

What do you guys think about the latest introduction to the 4WD Off-Road Buggy Class? This kit converts the Associated TC3 to a 4WD Off-Road buggy. It is made by RC Product Designs.

What do the guys that run this class prefer for wheels? Dish style or spoke wheels? and why?


Check the picture of the car too.....

[Possumbot]

i think thats it great that somebody is making these kits. Is there n e idea on making a xxx-s conversion 2? but i can't wait 2 buy my conversion(now i just need a tc3)

[DJ1978]

Here is another picture from the Web article RC Car Action did on the car!

[DJ1978]

These pics are all from a web exclusive article that RC Car Action did on the TC3 "O". You can go into the article Archives on the magazine sight to see the whole article.
Dan

[DJ1978]

RC Product Designs has been online for less than 2 weeks and we have had over 5000 hits on our site!
Parts for the first 50 kits are in production.
We have recieved orders from all over the world including the US, Japan,UK, and more.
We have also recieved request from distributors in the US, The UK, Austria and Spain to carry the kit! In addition, an aftermarket company contacted us to see if we would be interested in them producing hop up parts for the kit. All these are in the negotiation stages.
There are still plenty of the first 50 kits available to order. Place yours today and be one of the first to own a TC3 "O"!
Thanks to all for the encouragement and support.
Dan Burnham
RC Product Designs.

[TC3 Benjammin]

What's the website again, Dan? I forgot which thread you posted in before.

Thanks.:)

[perez1410]

The site is www.rcproductdesigns.com

Regards,
Carlos

[TC3 Benjammin]

Thanks Carlos!;)

[aspiringrcracer710]

Do all 4wd buggy bodies fit this thing

[DJ1978]

We have found that the Schumacher Cat 2000 and 3000 fit the best. They are both available for sale on our site.
The Yokomo 4 wheel drive buggy also fits but there is limited room for electronics ventilation.

[Poolboy51]

Originally posted by DJ1978
RC Product Designs has been online for less than 2 weeks and we have had over 5000 hits on our site!
Parts for the first 50 kits are in production.
We have recieved orders from all over the world including the US, Japan,UK, and more.
We have also recieved request from distributors in the US, The UK, Austria and Spain to carry the kit! In addition, an aftermarket company contacted us to see if we would be interested in them producing hop up parts for the kit. All these are in the negotiation stages.
There are still plenty of the first 50 kits available to order. Place yours today and be one of the first to own a TC3 "O"!
Thanks to all for the encouragement and support.
Dan Burnham
RC Product Designs.
Hey man glad to hear your having alot of success with your business. Maybe you could contact associated and ask if they might be interested in maybe having their factory team drivers use your kit at a upcoming big race. Just food for thought. Keep up the good work!:)

[perez1410]

Poolboy51, that is actually a great idea. We would love to do that. If you know any of their e-mail addresses, so we can contact them that would be great.

You can also direct them to the following e-mail address for more information at rcproductdesigns@comcast.net

Regards,

Carlos Perez

[aspiringrcracer710]

Has anybody won with this conversion yet? Doesn't matter if its the national, regional or club level

[perez1410]

We ran our prototype at our track (at the club level) the last full winter season here in Michigan. Dan finished 3rd in the point series (total of 8 races). The car did great. You can see pictures of the car at the following site for the track we raced at..... www.washtenawrcraceway.homestead.com


Currently there is a Michigan driver, Jesse Ramey, that just started racing our old prototype at the MARS series until our production kits come in August. By then, he will be upgrading the parts to production level too, along with all the orders that have been placed.

He ran this last weekend, and he qualified 3rd in the A-main, and finished 4th overall. He was quite happy with it...but is still working with new setups and getting use to the car.

You can see the latest car design at www.rcproductdesigns.com

Regards,
Carlos Perez

[arsonist678]

hey perez
is that one guy gonna race at a track in vicksburg, MI
cause im pretty sure they have a MARS race at least they did last year

[perez1410]

That is correct. He is planning on attending all the MARS series races.

Regards,
Carlos Perez

[ms2003]

i am thinking of buying the kit, but i have a couple of questions.
first, on your order form do you have to get the extra 4 degree front block carriers and b3/b2/t3 servo saver kit?
second, wht kind of body did you guys let rc car action run?

[DJ1978]

The 4 degree negative Caster blocks are a recommended option. They give the car more steering.
The Servo Saver kit is a necessary part of the conversion. You can buy it on our site or at your local Hobby Shop or favorite online distributor.
The best body we have found is the Schumacher cat 2000 or 3000. Both of those are available on the site. The Yokomo 4 wheel drive buggy body will fit.. but the ventilation for electronics is tight.
Hope this helps.. If you have any other questions, Please feel free to contact us.
Thanks
Dan Burnham
RC Product Designs.

[rccadude]

Hey anyone got TC3O yet? I cant wait to see someone have it and post a pic in forum. Pics will help me to think about getting TC3O cause I have TC3.

Big thanks to guys who keep good work for 4wd buggy.

Hey guys, if you remember Eternal RC as member of rcca forum. That is me.. I am coming back! Hello to everyone. :-D

[DJ1978]

You can see pics of the car in several places.
Go to the Article Archives on the RC Car Action web sight and they did a web exclusive article a while back.
Also the July 2002 issue of RC Car pg 118-121 there is an article. that is VERY close to the production car.
Our web address is www.rcproductdesigns.com
There are pics there also.
Thanks for the interest.
Dan
RC Product Designs.
Home of the TC3 "O"

[rccadude]

DJ1978, I checked your TC3O in www.rcproductdesigns.com and www.washtenawrcraceway.homestead.com. I saw a pic of your RC10B3 and TC3O sitting together. That pic is best looks because it is very cool to compare between B3 and TC3O. Very cool...that pic make me want to get TC3O kit. I am curious why aluminum shock tower in front is too wide and higher? Help me to understand.. Thanks.

[DJ1978]

The pictures I think you are talking about are on the Washtenaw sight. With both buggies sitting on a bench.
The buggy the TC3 "O" is sitting next to is my Traxxas TRX-1. That is my 2 wheel drive race buggy and it is still very competitive.
You would have to clarify which vehicle you are talking about as far as the shock tower goes.
The TC3 "O" is the same as it has always been.
The TRX-1 is stock dimensions, but made from Titanium.
Thanks
Dan

[perez1410]

New pictures from RC Product Designs....

[perez1410]

More pics

[perez1410]

more...

[perez1410]

another one...

[perez1410]

...check their latest gallery of pictures at www.rcproductdesigns.com and then select their gallery.

[WheelNut]

Hey just checked out the site! I was thinking about buying one of these, or building one myself. But then I saw the price

$200!!!!!!!:eek:

Sorry, no thanks, I'll just buy a Team Losi XXX-4 when it comes out should be the same price, but that excludes the extra money you have to shell out for a TC3 in the first place! Any I think you have to buy shocks to with this TC3 kit. Not only that it doesnt come with a spur gear guard.

[rccadude]

What year is right now???? $200 sounds nice for TC3O. Hey look at TMAXX hop ups is lot of money and cost more than TC3O. Well, I like TC3O with new style...something creative on TC3. Awesome.

[WheelNut]

Ya, but I dont like to waste perfectly good money :rolleyes:

All those T-maxx hop-ups are out there because the maxx needs to be redisgned to fit the need of current RC'ers. All those parts are is a waste of money if you have to spend $1700 on alumnim to make a truck good buy something else! I just dont see these as ecinomical at all.

I do agree its nice though, but I'd rather get something engineered off the bat to be used as a 4wd off-road racing buggy.

If AE released a 4wd buggy though I woudl guess it woudl cost about $200 as a complete chassis.

BTW-Its 2002(hehe)

I'm not trying to come off angry or anythign either.....

[rccadude]

WheelNut - I never been angry in forum. :D

I am already purchased TC3O kit and waiting for get it. I will make pics of it and post in forum.

[DJ1978]

Wheel nut...I will say the same to you as I have said to others...
The price... This kit is composed of all CNC machined parts.. We are not a Multi Million dollar company like Associated or Losi, Just a couple of guys who thought the RC Commnunity would like something fun and different. If someone were to go to a machine shop to have the parts for a TC3 "O" of these custom machined.. It would cost WAY More the $200.
But yet I can not afford to spend thousands of dollars to have an injection mold made like the big companies can..
The parts you spend $6,$8,$10 on in the hobby shop only cost pennies each to make for the big companies.
As far as being engineered off the bat to be a 4 wheel drive buggy....
That is what I did... I have been working on the design for almost 3 years to make the TC3 "O" a competitive 4 wheel drive buggy. And it is.
Right now.... my business partner is in England testing the car with one of Europes top 4 wheel drive drivers.. Neil Cragg. He finished 8th at the Worlds in South Africa in 4 wheel drive and just won the European Championship in two Wheel MOD. He contacted us with a desire to see the car and drive it. You can see that article at www.rcracer.com
Dan Burnham
RC Product Designs.
Home of the TC3 "O"

[WheelNut]

Yes I realise that, but I just simply cannot afford to pay that, so I must turn else where. Thats just the way it goes. I'm not sying it not a high quality over priced kit, but its just to much for me....

[rccadude]

WheelNut - Hey, you can wait till distributor to stock TC3O kits and parts. I know www.stormerhobbies.com is planning to stock in. Just wait.. You would afford it someday. That is smart way of you dont have rush to buy xxx4 because TC30's price is good deal in future whenever distributor selling it. You rather wait or buy it.. You have two choices.. or just go for xxx4.. I am not encouraging you. I am just post in forum that something I have in my mind.


Dan Burnham and Carlos Perez- I am asking you for one question for me being curious. Do you think you would make TC3 convert to 4wd RC10 T3? similar to 2wd RC10 T3

That will be great for RCCA to do drive test and write an arcticle about 2wd and 4wd RC10 Truck.

RCPD, Keep up the good work.

[DJ1978]

WE do not have plans currently in the works for a 4 wheel drive T3. That doesn't mean we won't.... just not right away...
There seems to be no market in the US for a 4 wheel drive truck like that.
I expected the HPI RS4 MT to take off when first introduced. I thought there would be people racing them in a class all their own... But the ones who have bought them and brought them to the track have been few and far between.
I have an idea for converting the RS4 MT into a buggy to even open up the 4 wheel drive buggy racing even more!!!
Dan

[rccadude]

Dan, Okay you are making a good point. Forgot about 4wd truck. Ahh you got good idea for hpi truck convert to buggy. Have you thinking of convert Hpi Micro RS4 to buggy? I always want micro buggy and spin around on dirt track. Haha.:D

[Backfire]

To any one who has run the conversion, how does the chassis respond to throttle input while jumping. We have been having a discussion concerning the TC3 layout and weather the orientation results in a side loading of one side when accelarating. The same effects should be easier to see in the offroad version while jumping. Does the chassis have any tendency to drop the "driver's" side at all when the throttle is applied in the air? Or does it stay level? The discussion wasn't to evaluate the performance of the offroad car, so hopefully you won't take this as an attack on the design:D Just looking for some insight into the effects of the longitudinal motor orientation.
But I guess one question for the off-road car would go hand in hand. Can you control the "attitude" of the car in the air with the throttle? Or does the layout prevent that from working?

Thanks for any info!!

[firebladerunner]

I have not seen the car run but I can ansew that question right now the car may pitch to one side ever so slightly but the the weight of the tires is more than enuogh to compensate for the rotation of the motor plus remember the driveshaft rotates in the opposite direction and they will tend to cancel each other out. the effect on handling mid air or otherwise of having the motor on one side and all the batteries on the other should be minimal to the point of not being a hinderance as the weight bias left to right is very close one may use some lead weight to compesnate as I suspect if you used a graphite chassis and TI screws you would be very close to weight if not under. plus one could use oversized radio gear to help. I have a qustion for dj is the driveshaft a tube or is made of solid aluminum?

[DJ1978]

Backfire,
Not a problem in the air. It is very adjustable and repsonsive in the air. You can read the RC Car Action web article and see what they had to say about the cars jumping ability.
Fireblade runner.
Center shaft is solid.

[DJ1978]

The TC3 "O" Conversion kits are now in stock in limited number and can be ordered for immediate delivery.
GET YOURS TODAY!!!!
www.rcproductdesigns.com

[Aluma]

ummm, wouldnt making the shock towers out of thick graphite be cheaper, lighter and stronger than the aluminum? I bet Penguin R/C could do some nice ones for this...

[drader]

quote: There seems to be no market in the US for a 4 wheel drive truck like that

Not true! So many of my non-race friends would LOVE to have a 4 wheel drive T3 or XXXT. The problem with the MT is - it's an HPI. Those things break if you look at 'em funny (sorry HPI, but you guys suk). And belt drive is stupid; take a hint from 1/8 buggys: shaft drive is low maintenance and indestructable. I want to build up a brushless AWD rig with bigger than buggy tires, and the only real options are 1. Emaxx with 1/8th buggy tires, or modify a 1/8th buggy for electric. I will look into your kit, though.

[rccadude]

Hey, I finally built my TC3O. DJ and Carlos are doing a great job with TC3O kit. I am little bit frustrated with Schumacher body because it is little bit not fit in front of buggy. In rear of body is great. I suggest RCPD (R/C Product Desgins) to make their own lexan body to be perfectly fits to TC3O and looks beautiful. I am wondering why Team Losi refuse to make shaft drive 4wd buggies!!!??? :confused: By the way, I have not run my TC3O. I need to paint body and one more of short turnbuckle with traxxas rod. TC3O is awesome but RCPD need to design new lexan body to fits perfectly and looks nice. To RCPD, keep up the good job.

Rccadude

[DJ1978]

Thanks for your comments, we appreciate the input.
The Cat 2000 and 3000 bodies are the best fit we can find for now. We are always looking for a better fit. We do hope in the future to develope a body of our own. That will come in time as the business grows.
Glad you like the buggy so far. You will REALLY Like it when you run it.
Feel free to ask if you have any questions.
www.rcproductdesigns.com
Dan

[Zod]

:)
By the way nice work guys, you are truly doing 4wd RC a favor ,
i have some questions regarding the "TC3 O"
does it have a slipper clutch ?? if it dosen't, does your kit chew spur gears when you ride Bumpy tracks or when doing very tall jumps???
Do you think that if you run the TC3 with the optional front one way diff it's gonna drive better ??

i own a tc3 and i also have a kyosho lazer ZX-R 4wd wich is a blast to drive i hope to see your kit soon at the track . ;)

[DJ1978]

Thanks!
The TC3 "O" Does not have a slipper. I wanted to make the conversion as simple as possible and to add a slipper would mean major chassis modifications.
I have been running mine for over 3 years. I have never had to replace a diff gear and have only stripped one spur. That was when I used a thin pinion on the car. Other than that the drivetrain has been solid as a rock.
If you have a TC3... Then you can be the first at your track to have a TC3 "O"!!! Order it soon. We have a limited number of kits available for immediate delivery, but we have a distributor in England we are negotiating with the will take almost all of them very soon.
Thanks again.
Dan
RC Product Designs
www.rcproductdesigns.com

[fabolousRC]

Dan, have you try contacting Dahms bodies. I know they have several universal buggy bodies that might fit into TC3 :eek: too

[DJ1978]

Right now we use the Schumacher Cat 2000 and 3000 bodies. I have recently purchased a Durtrax body that looks pretty good too.
I will keep looking.
Down the road we hope to develop our own and possibly mold our own.

[SMcpot]

Why the aluminum shock towers and chassis extension? Seems like carbon fiber or even fiberglass would be more resilient to the abuse those parts would be subjected to. Not a flame, just curious...

[DJ1978]

We chose Aluminum for two reasons. Tough and cheap to keep the cost of the kit down.
Fibergalss is too flexable we are looking into carbon fiber as a hop up.
Thanks for the interest.

[brittonlj77]

What kind of aluminum are the parts made from? That would look awesome if they could be anodized. :)

[DJ1978]

They are 6061 T6

[momosport]

Im seriously considering the TC3 O

Looks impressive.





Momo

[rccadude]

Wanna get mine? I got it from rcproductdesigns. I am selling it because I dont feel right to race my TC3O because local hobby shop carries most of Losi parts for XX4 and XXX4.:confused:

[DJ1978]

WHOA WHOA WHOA!!!
Have you raced it yet??? It is SWEET!!! We had 5 at our home track last weekend!
The reason that your Local Hobby Shop only carries Losi XX and XXX4 parts it because that is all that has been available for years... Same Old... same old....
That is why we are marketing the TC3 "O"!!! To Blow the doors of 4 wheel buggy racing open! And it is working. We have sold to people in England, Japan, US, Italy.
We have a guy in England who finshed 8th in the Worlds in South Africa with a Schumacher Cat 3000 this spring, He is now driving the TC3 "O". He has TQ'ed and won ever race he has entered with it so far.
We are constantly striving to make it even better.
We have just designed a new steering Tie bar that will improve the steering and ackerman drastically. That part will be sent to all who have purchased the TC3 "O" Kit as a free upgrade as soon a they go into production. Which should be this week sometime.
Hope you decide to keep it and Race it!!!
Any help you might need with set up, Gearing or anything else, Feel free to email us at rcproductdesigns@comcast.net
Thanks
Dan
RC Product Designs.

[rccadude]

Dan, I never run it. LOL I have problem at LHS that they dont carries TC3O parts. Also they dont sell on road cars. They are focus in offroad racing. I talked to few people about TC3O and they dont even know what TC3O is. Oh my God! Seems like they dont know anything about R/C or never purchase RCCA magazine. Six people bought new XXX-4 buggy last week ago, and they are able to race this Saturday. Nobody own TC3O at my local track. I dont think the owner of hobby shop and track will order TC3O parts because nobody own TC3O. That is terrible. I am wondering why TC3O alignment is hard to move? I tried to push and pull alignment turnbuckles. Send me an email of setup, gearing or anything. Email me at rccadude@aol.com Ahh, I am wondering why not AE buy your ideas then you and AE will work together to make whole 4wd car kit and sell it with fancy box like as XXX-4.:D

Thanks for your support.

rccadude

[DJ1978]

We are a small company. We JUST went into business July 1st 2002. No one carries TC3 "O" Parts except us. We do a offer them for sale on the web at www.rcproductdesigns.com
The other parts for an Associated TC3 are available on the web at places like Tower or Hobby People or Horizon Hobby, or your hobby shop can order them for you.
You will find the TC3 "O" to be VERY competitive even with a milder motor in it like a 15X2 MOD. You can Gear a motor like that with a 22 or 21 pinion and 74 spur.
We are working on a custom body for the TC3 "O" we will announce when and if that happens. Right now the Cat 2000 or 3000 is the best fit. Use Velcro to hold the sides in tight. And use some Duct Tape or Chassis covering on the bottom of the chassis.
Our Track is kind of rough and I run 25 wt oil in the rear and 35wt in the front with the stock pistons in the shocks. Soft springs. Play with the shock mounts to find the position you like best for your track conditions.
Associated has business contracts with both Schumacher and Yokomo that prohibit them from producing a 4 wheeldrive buggy from what I understand.
Let me know if you need any other help.
Dan

[rccadude]

What is the best setup for indoor smooth track? I raced at R/C Redstick Raceway. This place is indoor off road track. For your curiousity- check at www.redstickraceway.com :cool:

[StevenA]

Or you could just buy a Tenth Technology ETQ and have problems with parts availability,and shock problems that will drive you crazy.
The TC3"O" sounds like a GREAT alternative to the NORM.

[Racer123091]

I like what I see... and I have enough parts lying around from my tc3 (chassis, braces, towers, hubs) that all i would need is diffs and bearings pretty much, but there isn' t an off-road class and i don't have pockets full of cash...

[momosport]

DJ

You will be getting an email from me soon. I have some ?s for you.


Momo

[DJ1978]

I will look forward to it.. Feel Free to ask anything you like.
Thanks
Dan

[dragracer28]

Do you think that you could use a pan car diff for a center diff in a 4wd off-road buggy. It would be like the center diffs on 1/8 scale buggies and would inprove tuning alot.

[T3_Bashing]

will the TC3 O hang with a Losi XXX-4 on the track? How is it for braking parts? I would really like to get into 4wd buggies but the Losi buggy is SO BRITTLE!!!!!!! I do not think I have ever seen one go a race day with out braking something

[Sorchy10GT]

It would be nice If they offerd a kit or a rolling prebilt kit

[DJ1978]

Those suggestions are really appreciated and we are talking about offering those things.
We are a VERY Small company that just started in July 2002. Our working capital is limited right now.
We do have an agreement with MIP to produce CVD's and they will be a regular part of the conversion in the future.
We are constantly looking to improve the Kit and make more available to our customers.
Thanks
Dan
RC Product Designs.

[LRSeriesIII]

That is one nice looking car. I'm really impressed with what you guys have been able to do given your size and how little time you've been in business. Good job guys, and I hope this thing really works out well for you.

I was wondering how well the TC3O works for things like hill climbing (45 degrees or so) and grass and other back-yard bashing type stuff. I've never raced (I'm not even sure any of the tracks in my area have 4wd off-road classes) and I've thought about it, but backyard bashing is what's really important. I've always wanted an off-road 4wd car and I'm a big AE fan, so this thing looks great once I can save up the cash.

[DJ1978]

Thanks for the interest in the TC3 "O" and I really appreciate the
encouraging and positive comments!!!
Obviously I would like for you to get one! And I feel the TC3 "O' would be a blast for running for fun and bashing if set up properly.
The TC3 "O" by design in a pure racing buggy.
I can not tell you how to spend your hard earned cash....
But if you are not racing and want to do some serious bashing and climbing... There are other vehicles I would recommend.
I Feel the Best vehicle for your intended purpose and the best value on the market as far as running for fun and bashing is the Traxxas EMaxx. I have one, My business partner at RC Product Designs has one also. They are very Fast, Powerful and are great climbing and jumping trucks. We also have a huge class racing them at our local track. And Traxxas has great customer support.
I do not want to discourage you from getting a TC3 "O". And I appreciate you interest and support. But my main focus is that all in our hobby enjoy the hobby to the fullest. SO for the purpose you have mentioned.. Climbing and Bashing for fun I wouldn't recommend the TC3 "O". It would handle it and be a blast... But it really is a race machine and I feel your money would be better spent on a Traxxas EMaxx. They are everything you are looking for... 4 wheel drive, Tons of power and climbing ability, silly fast and more. I would not recommend a Traxxas Stampede. They are great trucks too but very entry level 2 wheel drive and quite top heavy.
Hope this helps.. Feel free to ask any questions you might have. You can contact us directly at rcproductdesigns@comcast.net

Thanks
Dan
RC Product Designs

[LRSeriesIII]

Thanks for the un-biased advice. Actually I've been looking at the E-Maxx since it came out and monsters in general since I got into R/C (almost 7 years ago) and, well, they've always looked cool but never cool enough to drop cash on. I really like the off-road racing cars (I've had an RC10T since I got into R/C and still love it). THe hill in my backyard (the 45 degree one) is all grass, and the woods in my backyard (and there are plenty of them) are, well, mostly a little too much for R/C cars (especially the creek...). Monster trucks simply have a CG that is too high in my opinion for the kinds of stuff I like to do with my cars (like sliding through dirt and grass) and not too much in the way of advantages.

[RCPhan]

That is a very nice looking conversion! Can we get back to Carlos' original post about Dish or Spoke wheels? Being away from the hobby for the last 15 years, I have noticed that most 2wd cars are produced with dish wheels while most 4wd cars are produced with spokes. Why? I can understand dirt issues, but speed can't be an issue, otherwise 4wd would use dish as well. Can someone fill me in on what I am missing?

[DJ1978]

Schumacher does not offer a spoke any longer.
Dish is in.
More aerodynamic I guess.

[DJ1978]

I still would recommned the E Maxx.
CG can be lowered with shock travel limiters inside the shocks to lower it some if you needed to.
It is very stable even in stock trim.
and the ground clearance is exactly what you need.
Thanks
Dan

[mrkinigit]

Are the wheel hex adapters all thats needed to use the shumacher wheels?

[DJ1978]

Yes You use the stock TC3 Axles with the Wheel adapters to use the Schumacher 4 wheel drive buggy wheels

[T3_Bashing]

Anyone interested in a TC3 O rolling chassis with less than ten pack run through it? If so email me at dkrinard@aol.com

[DJ1978]

Here is the latest news from RC Product Designs about the TC3 "O"

2003 Off Road Worlds in Florida!!
We currently have three cars Qualified for the worlds. with 2 driver from England confirmed they will be attending and driving the TC3 "O"!!!

MIP CVD's
We recently recieved the prototypes CVD's from MIP.
After testing they will become a standart part of the TC3 "O"Conversion Kit.

RCPD TC3 "O" Body!
It won't be long before people won't have to ask what car it that?
You will not need a Schumacher, Losi or Yokomo body for your TC3 "O".
We have the initial molds in house and will soon have prototype bodies to Test Paint and fit.
Look for a unique, VERY COOL and functional body for the TC3 "O" from RC Product Designs Soon.

Custom machining
We are anticipating a late Feb. Early March delivery of a CNC Mill and Lathe Machining center. We will be able to produce your custom designs and reproduce most parts for older vehicles you have that you can not get parts for any more.
We will also have CAD CAM system in place to assist you with design ideas you may have.

Thanks for all the Support!!!
Dan

[MagicD]

You guys are living the dream with starting your own RC business. Congrats!

Your custom machining service sounds like a great idea! I just may be sending you some YZ-10 Parts for you to reproduce (i.e. Front and Rear A-Arms) :D Do you have the details of this service set up yet?

Oh, and congrats about getting some rides into the Worlds, that's a huge accomplishment!

[firebladerunner]

that sounds great are those new parts going to be out in time for the april fools race march 29-30 I would love to have that car to be at that race. I plan ordering my kit within the next week or so but would hold off a little bit if I could the new parts esp. the body

[DJ1978]

Thanks for the comments!!!
The Kit now comes with Aluminum CVD's that we manufacture. They are High quality and that is what I have been running all season. We JUST got the MIP prototypes and are planning on ordering soon. But they have quite a lead time.. SO I don't think they will be in by the date you mentioned.
The Bodies will not be ready either.. Sorry... Being such a small company we are working on a tight budget. So these things take time.
If you ordered now.. We will inform you when the hop ups come in.
We sell the Schumacher Cat 2000 and 3000 body on our site. That is what we are running now.
Thanks again.
Dan

[momosport]

T3_Bashing

Anyone interested in a TC3 O rolling chassis with less than ten pack run through it?

I WANT IT! Let me know what you want to do, We talked once thru email. I was impressed w/ the pics, please let me know.


DJ1978

Im excited to see the future prospects of the O. I hope to have one in time for our Stock nats later in April. If i can get this one from T3, you can definately count on feedback.

I was courious, what shock springs do you use? Truck fronts? buggy rears? and which shocks?


MOmo

[DJ1978]

Shock selection is up to you. I run Associated, I know of guys who are using Losi and Schumacher. It was designed with Associated shocks. B3 All Around.
Spring and oil selection is up to the track conditions. If your track is bumpy run soft springs and 35 or 30 in the front 30 or 25 in the rear. Smoother tracks you can stiffen it up some.
Have fun!!!
If T3 does not still have the car.. we have kits in stock!!
Dan

[momosport]

If T3 does not still have the car.. we have kits in stock!!

LOL, WHY AM I NOT SURPRISED at the SALES PITCH!! J/P!!
What kind of Deal can we work out?



Shock selection is up to you. I run Associated, t was designed with Associated shocks. B3 All Around

So you use B3 rear buggy springs all around? or Buggy rear for rear and Fronts for fronts?

Once I get more $$ you can count on it. If anyone has one for sale or wants to work a trade, Im interested.


MOmo

[Downforce]

Dan,

Did Jeff get ahold of you yet?

-Derek

[wcoyote_racer]

I remember someone saying something about graphite shock towers for the car. I know molding and materials cost, but I would think the weight savings would help, if you guys have the capacity and tools to do so. Besides a one piece shock tower would be nice. But i understand where you are coming from on that and applaud you for getting it started. If I knew more about the slipper setup in the TC3, (I don't own the car) I would be able to give some thoughts on how to apply that. Maybe I'll look it up and see what comes to mind.
Btw, I have a heavily modified YZ10, so the thought of old parts for it being able to come back is cool. Just to let you know of my abilities, I styled my YZ after Masami's old ride, complete with overdrive/underdrive option, rear adjustable wheelbase/belt tensioner (screw type) with an extra tensioner incase I shorten the wheelbase, dual one way bearing adapter, RPM f/r hubs and arms, Associated shocks, upper stiffener and more. I'm thinking of adding the adjustiblity for the front bulkhead as well. That should compensate for the f/r weight ratio by sliding the chassis forward or back.
Again congrats on the racing and the World Champs entry.

[wcoyote_racer]

I reviewed the tc3 instructions to see how some things might work. I realized that the shock towers would have to be two piece (one for the mount to the trans and graphite that attaches to it) unless the material is used the same way as the original was mounted and hight of them just made longer to cover your conversion specs. In essence same plastic, same mounting and just taller towers.
As for the slipper, I'm currently reviewing the setup of the spur on the direct drive shaft. Albiet I'm doing this by looking at the instructions only and no working model. I think it can be done relatively easy. Just have to find a piece to mount to the direct drive screwed from the back of that piece and use a pin type spur or slot type mount on the spur's center mount. Like "-0-" Or just a larger piece that mounts to the existing piece that sandwiches the one side with a pad and the pad on the other side of the spur with tapped threads on the end of the existing shaft and a nut with a nylon insert on it to tighten with. You should only have to make the circle adapter and tap the threads for the nut, as long as there is enough of the shaft left over to tap threads. If I have missed anything let me know.

[DJ1978]

Thanks for the comments and the input.
We have designs on the table for a one piece shock tower and the slipper unit and are getting input from the owners of the TC3 "O' and other racers too. We appreciate all comments from interested ones.
We expect delivery of our machining center soon and then we can make up the prototypes and hopefully get them into production soon after.
Thanks
Dan

[RCPhan]

Dan,

What types of comments are you getting from current "O" owners? Are they happy with their cars? Are they winning any races against those XXX4 things? Does anyone have any NEW photos of the "O" in action? I would really like to get back into 4wd, but I am first waiting to purchase my B4. After that then will be a new 4wd, but I don't yet have a TC3, so This could be a steep purchase!

[DJ1978]

RCPhan,
If you look on page 4 of this thread there is a TC3 "O" news update.
To add to that.. at our home track, Washtenaw RC Raceway in Ann Arbor, MI, We ran an Inddor Dirt season with a 7 race points series. The TC3 "O" finished 2nd and 4th in the points series. Consistently placing in the top 10 of a class that was regularly 2- 3 heats.
Carlos Perez, One of the owners of RC Product Designs won two A Main Races.
The TC3 "O" is definitely NOT for the faint of heart finacially. It is a PURE Race Buggy that was designed for anyone who is an Associated enthusiast or wants a competive buggy that is Shaft Drive. We do the best we can on price.
Feel Free to contact us if you have any other questions.
rcproductdesigns@comcast.net
Thanks
Dan

[mooplea]

i heard a rumour that the euro champs dad and someone else are working on a tc3'0' -like conversion of their own???
I have seen them run the tc3'0', are they developing it alongside you guys (or just marketing it over here in the UK )or are they going their own route now ?

[DJ1978]

That is very interesting....
The car that Neil Cragg is running is ours. If they are using that as a starting point on their own design.. that is news to me.
I will be looking into it.
We have been working closely with them on continous improvements on the car.
Thanks for the info.
Dan

[wcoyote_racer]

To reply to that car you may be seeing. In the 2002 Worlds they were making tc3 o conversions by Durango, but each one was hand made. They sell them for over almost 1100 Euros. The parts would be even more difficult to find than the RCPD kit since everything is hand made, and not cheap.
DJ said that Craig is running the RCPD conversion as of now. Good luck to him. With RCPD having a driver like that, it should help you guys a lot. Hopefully some of those other drivers realize that this kit is the better "o" conversion both in price, adjustibility, and avalibility. I don't know about you, but I don't have $800+ to throw around on a car. Especially without shocks and electric gear. RCPD seems to beat that all the way.

[MagicD]

I guess 1 of the main things keeping me out of the offroad 4wd class is durability. The 3 types of offroad 4wd cars I've seen (XX4, XXX4, and YZ-10) break about 10 times more often than any other car I've ever seen. How does the TC3-O stand up?

At my local track...if your 4wd car stays together for the entire race you've just upped your chances of winning by 50% or more (at least half the guys DNF).

[perez1410]

Just for clarification: Mick is not developing his own kit on the side. We are working together to improve upon a very good kit. There are certain things I have asked him to work on, that is why it may "appear" as if he were developing on his own. That includes full independent shock towers, concepts for slipper systems, etc.

Just like any other manufacturer, we are looking upon improving what we have all the time and what a better feedback than that from a World Class driver like Neil and his dad.

Durability.....I think Dan can testify for that one. I have never seen a person drive their car so hard like Dan. I sometimes ask myself if he knows whent to let off the throttle! LOL!

You can ask Mick and Neil themselves how durable has been the kit. He has been extremely satisfied with the durability and performance of the car. Specially how good the motors hold up with the driveshaft powertrain. He has been very very fast around the track, and qualifying on top of everybody most of the time.

Kind Regards,
Carlos Perez
RC Product Designs

[wcoyote_racer]

MagicD
I have a YZ and have never broken a part while racing in the two years I raced it. I think a lot of people that started out driving 2wd and switched 4wd didn't realize that you can't drive the cars the same way, they don't react like the 2wds and are quite heavier. In that case they will break more often if you don't respect the forces created on their components. Most of the breaks I've witnessed are from new 4wd drivers overdriving their cars.
Hopefully now that the 4wd touring cars are out, drivers have figured out this point, by racing the cars like the tc3 and xxx-s.
As far as breakage on these cars, the xxx-4 had a bad batch of plastic on the first few kits that was not found out quick enough. That has been solved. I know quite a few owners of that car (including me) that have had no problems once the bad parts were replaced. I've seen tc3 arms get killed just as bad when people hit the boards, Graphite or otherwise.
It's all because of the materials they use now, even on 2wds. The stiffer the stuff, the less break resistent they are. It also improves the suspension by being stiffer. 2wds don't show the weakness of that stuff that 4wds will, simply because of the weight and forces difference of the two types. Solution to any of those breaking problems is this: nylon arms. The problem is, nylon, while less break resistant, also allows more suspension flex during travel. Can't have it both ways. Btw, I have RPM nylon arms on my YZ on all four corners. No breakage at all.

[DJ1978]

MagicD,
The only way to describe my driving of the TC3 "O" is like a drunk on a dirt bike!!!
I always say.. Carlos demonstrates how competitive the car can be.. I demonstrate how durable. I drive it all out all the time.
In the three years I have been developing and now manufacturing the car.. I have broken two front and one rear A Arm. They are made from Delrin and hold up great.
I have broken Associated parts... Shock towers. Rear hubs.. but even that has been minimal.
You would not be dissappointed with the TC3 "O". It is tough as nails and fast like a rocket.

[MagicD]

Although I am quite versed on why 4wd vehicles are more susceptible to breakage (i.e. weight, more moving parts, etc.) I still don't think the things should break as often as they do. For anyone but the most seasoned racer, I think more durable parts (arms, shocktowers) are more important than more ridgid/light parts. Nylon IS a wonderful thing. I'm very glad to hear that the TC3-O has stood up well.


And yes I am also aware of the Losi materials problem that has apparently been rectified, so my opinion may change as I see more and more of the updated vehicles (although most folks around here have already sold them in a fit of frustration).


I also have RPM arms on my YZ...although I haven't driven it in many years. On a related note, the number of tiny, thin screws that hold the YZ together is awful.

[wcoyote_racer]

Yep. Gotta love those 2mm screws! :D

[RCPhan]

Anyone out there own this car? I would love to see some more action photos.

Dan... how is that new body coming along? Are we going to see any "spy" photos of it any time soon?

[psycho02]

Dan or Carlos are either of u guys planning on running the mars series this year?

[mooplea]

Carlos, i thought that was the case, i heard the rumour on another message board. I have seen the tc3'0' in the hands of cragg and bradby and its very fast indeed, but they are fast guys.

it will be interesting to see how they go outside next month.
Personally i run a xxx4 in 4wd but would really have liked a predator (if they were still made) might look into getting the tc3'0' conversion if mick is gonna be selling yours over here and spares are easy to find.

[psycho02]

When did they quit making predators? I just bought one going into last year. their web site is still up too, I bought one from their website about a year ago. It was a bad investment though, I never ran it because I was'nt sure if I could reasonably support the car for a whole season here in the states. It's too bad as a company they really could not get their stuff together a little better. If they would have been able to supply associated for the last worlds with what they needed it would have went a long way towards helping tenth technologies get a foot hold in the american marketplace.

[Downforce]

Originally posted by psycho02
Dan or Carlos are either of u guys planning on running the mars series this year?

I don't know if they will be running all of them, but I'm planning on running my Otech powered TC3 "O".

[psycho02]

Who are you downforce? and where are you from?

[Downforce]

Originally posted by psycho02
Who are you downforce? and where are you from?

I'm who ever you want me to be..wink...wink. :D j/k

I'm Derek Manchester from Michigan.

[psycho02]

Yeah I figured u were from Michigan just wondering what part.
I am Ken Kennedy from Spring Lake Michigan. I thought u were mostly an on road guy.

[Downforce]

Originally posted by psycho02
Yeah I figured u were from Michigan just wondering what part.
I am Ken Kennedy from Spring Lake Michigan. I thought u were mostly an on road guy.

Wixom.

The only reason I don't run it more is because of the dust and I don't like how dirty your gear gets. It does teach you how to run in traffic and pass cleaner though.

[psycho02]

Throttle touch as well if u wanna be good u have to learn how to be fast even when there is not traction.

[mooplea]

Originally posted by psycho02
When did they quit making predators? I just bought one going into last year. their web site is still up too, I bought one from their website about a year ago. It was a bad investment though, I never ran it because I was'nt sure if I could reasonably support the car for a whole season here in the states. It's too bad as a company they really could not get their stuff together a little better. If they would have been able to supply associated for the last worlds with what they needed it would have went a long way towards helping tenth technologies get a foot hold in the american marketplace.


Its certainly one of the fastest cars around when its not breaking, they stopped making them a while back afaik, they got bought out by centrepoint, there is talk of a new improved buggy maybe with help from hudy, but i think their reputation is already soiled..

[DJ1978]

I will post pics of the new body style sometime this week.
I have the first prototype. It is still a little rough but will give you and idea of the shape.
I plan on running the MARS Series. Carlos is going to run some of them.
Dan

[firebladerunner]

I just recieved my kit and was impressed with the quality of the parts and everything went together rather smoothly and even though I haven't run it yet I look foward to doing so this weekend. I showed to one of my friends and he said the the pictures just do not do it justice and I agree


dj1978 please either e-mail or send me pm

[mooplea]

im sure no one cares! but here is neil craggs tc3O today at Batley.

http://www.oople.com/rc/photos/batley230303/bigimages/DSCF0285.jpg

[DJ1978]

Thanks for the picture!! ANY time you want to post more of the TC3 "O" in Action please feel free!!!
Dan

[mooplea]

hehe.. thought you might really..

didnt get that many of neils car as i was busy preparing my own during 4wd, heres another, less dramatic, shot.


http://www.oople.com/rc/photos/batley230303/bigimages/DSCF0317.jpg

[Backfire]

Does anyone know what body he is running on his? Also, Are there any issues with the shock towers working loose like there are on the onroad TC3's? I know that has been a weak point for the NTC3 cars, and I would assume the impacts in offroad would be tough on the car.

[psycho02]

that is a schumacher cat 2000 body on it. I can't speak to the other tech issues in your post as I don't have a tc3o.

[DJ1978]

You can use several different bodies on the TC3 "O".
We sell the Schumacher Cat 2000 and 3000 bodies on our site. The Yokomo and Losi 4 wheel drive buggy bodies will also fit.
We are currently in the process of developing our own mold to produce a TC3 "O" Body. I will try to post a picture of the prototype soon.
In race conditions we have never had an issue of the shck towers coming loose. I have never had one loosen on my onroad car either.
Thanks
Dan
RC Product Designs.

[RCPhan]

Not sure which car it actually is, but there is another forum that claims the car Cragg is driving is a "CB" conversion and not a TC3 "O". Can someone confirm?

[mooplea]

ave a look at the previous page and you will see its already been discussed...

[RCPhan]

Thanx Mooplea... I did read those comments before, but I never noticed where anyone said that the TC3 "O" is now going to be called the "CB". Also, that same forum says the kit will be shipping in 2-3 weeks. I thought the "O" kits were already available?

I am really confused! :rolleyes:

[momosport]

Dan, Carlos

OK, Im going to get one, but I need to know a couple things, do you need to modify the chassis at all for the steering links? I have a TC3 w/ the rally conversion (that I will give the O treatment) and I had to mill out some of the chassis because the turnbuckles would catch on the chassis where the steering links went out to the hub and knuckle. Just courious. I might need to pick up a 2nd chassis to make sure that i don't compromise the chassis.

How easily to the A arms break? and what about shock towers? I know that at my home track XXXSs are always breaking towers and arms, I hope the TC3O is more resistant to those things. Also w/ my XX4, i found bulkheads to be another easily breakable part. What types of re-enforcement can be done to prevent this?

With Stock nats coming soon, i want to have a TC3 O in the mix, just so losi doesn't take all the positions.

I'll be in touch about purchasing etc.


MOmo

[perez1410]

Just to clear things up, the kit is the TC3"O". Nothing else. It is currently available at the website www.rcproductdesigns.com

There is no other car, other than the durango, based on the TC3 chassis. Neil is driving our conversion kit.

If you have any further questions, please send us a note at rcproductdesigns@comcast.net

Kind Regards,
Carlos Perez
RC Product Designs

[perez1410]

Forgot to mention that you can see the latest article on the car in the Radio Control Car Racer magazine (U.K.) (April 2003 issue) pages 16, 17 and 18. It is an article on the kit, the company and comments on the fact that Neil is driving the kit. A full vehicle review will be up and comming in the next few months.

Kind Regards,
Carlos Perez
RC Product Designs

[RCPhan]

I don't know what the deal is, but it seems that they are developing their own parts for a car called the "Concept CB".

Check out the disscusion in the forum linked below:

http://www.rcracechat.co.uk/ubbthreads/showflat.php?Cat=&Board=UBB2&Number=27035&page=0&view=collapsed&sb=5&o=0&fpart=

[Taz_S]

so any pic of the body yet?

[perez1410]

Taz, I e-mailed you a couple of pictures of our exclusively designed molded prototype body for the TC3"O". It should be in your mailbox.

Regards,
Carlos Perez
RC Product Designs

[firebladerunner]

how bout some pics for me

mjremote@filertile.com

[perez1410]

Firebladerunner, you should have them in your inbox tonight.

Regards,
Carlos Perez
RC Product Designs

[MagicD]

Why not just post the protype body pictures here? Is it just too early to show?

I'm sure there are a number of people here that would like to take a look at um...even if we all can't afford TC3-O kits right now :(

[firebladerunner]

now it wont let me put my email address up here just click on the e-mail box below to get the right address

sometimes I am all thumbs

[perez1410]

fireblade, the email I sent you last night got bounced back with e-mail address delivery error message.

I will post one in this site tonight. I need to make the picture smaller in size to be able to upload.

Regards,
Carlos

[perez1410]

Here is a picture I took this past weekend of the newly painted prototype TC3"O" 4WD Off-road buggy body.

Kind Regards,
Carlos Perez
RC Product Designs

[perez1410]

Here is a second picture of the prototype TC3"O" 4WD Off-road buggy body.







Kind Regards,
Carlos Perez
RC Product Designs

[perez1410]

Here is a third picture of the prototype TC3"O" 4WD Off-road buggy body shown in these three cars that competed at the ELECTRIC STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS here in Michigan last Sunday. The competition was at the Dirt Burner Racing Track, in Commerce Township. The one in the middle finished 6th place in the A-main and the two in the corners were in the B-Main.

Kind Regards,
Carlos Perez
RC Product Designs

[psycho02]

who was driving the car that made the A main??

[DJ1978]

Carlos was driving the A Main Car.
Blue car is mine.
Yellow is car is owned by Derek Manchester.
Thanks
Dan

[nhearnest]

I was just curious if anyone has coverted an ntc3 for offroad. It looks like it would be an easy conversion. I wish I did not sell my xxx-4 and I could of used it parts for a conversion.

[Dyingslow]

Sorry if this question has been answered before (I didn't see it in the other posts)...

It was mentioned that the kit was designed for the associated shocks but did not indicated which length. So, which length for the front (.71 or .56) and for the rear (1.02 or 1.32)?

Here's a suggestion... How about adding a "Set-up" page on your website? I think that will give the car more perceived value for those surfing your site as well provide a good baseline set-up.

(I hope to order a kit in the next few weeks.)

Justin
Dyingslow@aol.com

[perez1410]

Working on the setup page as we speak....

Regards,
Carlos Perez
RC Product Designs

[psycho02]

MAaaaan what do you guys have to da to get some love from associated. I just got the newest new letter today from them, It had a section entitled electric tips. In that section it had a question "would you guys ever make a tc3 off-road conversion?" they said no someone already does and they put a link to the durango site on it. Did they forget about you guys or what?

[SCHMACH]

you guys said that you were getting some machining equipment and that you guys would be able to do custom parts...will you guys be able to make a full set of arms, but t3 length ? same with the cvds. i've made a truck but i would like to have the proper width.

[DJ1978]

psycho2-
Ask Associated!!! Shoot them a note and ask specifically about the TC3 "O". See what they say and let us know.
They seem to have some sort of affiliation with Durango. Not sure what the deal is.

Shumach-
We are picking up our machine tonight and will post when we are up and operational.
We will be able to do almost any custom part any one will need.
A Arms will not be a problem. You can provide us with the dimensions you need or just the concept and we have a CAD system we can use to design the parts and get your approval before we machine it.
Keep an eye on the boards or our web site for more information.
www.rcproductdesigns.com

[firebladerunner]

how soon is that body going to be availible I would like to order it as soon as it is out. plus I am looking foward to having a setup section your site

[Dyingslow]

What have your experiences been with the one-way front drive set-up (performance, durabilty, better for what surfaces, etc...)?

Are you still suggesting running the steel differential outdrives and is anyone running the plastic ones? I'm assuming durability is the big issue?

After you get the CNC machine up and running, will you be making one piece shock towers?

Does the car "prefer" any particular track surfaces (ie does it generally perform better on the blue groove, hard, dusty, wet, dry, etc...)

Sorry for all the questions, but I'm in the process of rebuilding the TC3 I just picked up and want to make sure I get the right stuff...

Thanks,

Justin
Dyingslow@aol.com

[DJ1978]

Firebladerunner-
The body is a ways off yet. We are refining the mold and then will run some more prototypes. If we like it we will go to production.

Dyingslow-
The Front one way diff is a definite NO NO!!!!
The outdrives do not have anything holding them in. they work their way out and bind and bend the CVD's
Some are using a Center shaft oneway sucessfully.

Plastic diffs melt. That is why we recommend the steel.

The machine is in house and being set up. One piece shock tower production is high on our priority list.

The car has been sucessful on all types of surfaces. Our home track was soft with some hard spots.. The TC3 "O' finished 2nd and 4th in points and Won two races.

It is unbeaten in England where they run on multi- surface tracks.

And the few times it has been run on Hard clay it has shown well with the best finish 3rd in the A at a local clay track.

Hope this helps.
Dan

[dragracer28]

Go on www.durango.rc10.de/ this is the car that all the AE drivers are racing www.durango.rc10.de/ (http://www.durango.rc10.de/)

[DJ1978]

Thank you we know all about it.. It is VERY Expensive.
You should note.... NOT ALL Associated drivers are running it.
Look for at least two drivers with a RC Product Designs TC3 "O" at the Worlds warm up race this weekend in Florida and at the Off Road Worlds in October.

[Dyingslow]

Any information on recent race results for the car? Did Neil Cragg run one during the last week's "Warm Up Race"? I only saw Durango's and XX4's in the A main results. I'm still preparing my TC3 for the conversion. I'm not the greatest driver in the world but I am confident I can get respectable results with your TC3 "O". My local track is clay based (sometimes wet and sometimes dry). Hopefully after I get the kit and everything all built up, I will be able to hand you some good set-ups. Please keep us updated on the race results and what not... And keep those pictures coming in...

Justin
Dyingslow@aol.com

[Dyingslow]

RCPD people,

Please check out the following site for improved shock towers
http://www.microtechracing.com/en-gb/dept_40.html
You may want to design a similar mount that allows the mount to go before the tranny case or the towers before the mount...

At my local track, the xxx4's have been going through shock towers and arms like crazy (even the updated ones). The clay is packed very hard and not too forgiving. You've mentioned that the TC3O is durable, none-the-less all cars break. What parts should I buy spares for right off the bat...?

How does the roll center on your buggy compare to that of the latest Losi, Yokomo, and Schumacher?

My baseline TC3 chassis is almost prep'ed. What length turnbuckles do I need for the kit?

Justin
Dyingslow@aol.com

[DJ1978]

Thanks for the link.. I will check it out.
Those are similiar to what we have in mind. The shock tower will probably be Carbon Fiber.
The part most common to break on any vehicle is the Front A Arms. Also the A Arms mounts take a beating if you hit something hard enough to break one of our arms.. It takes a real hit to do it.
Obviously CVD's are a wear item.
Rear Arms breakage is rare.... but it never hurts to have a spare pair. I think all winter long I broke one rear Arm and two fronts running a very rough track with Huge jumps.
Turnbuckle length depends on the ball cups you choose, There is recommended lengths in the manual.
Hope this helps.
Also you might want to get an aluminum center drive cup for the front gearbox. Pre install all the components and get the proper spacing with o-rings in the cups. After you install it, pack it with grease, install the center shaft with the proper amount of Orings for spacing, and seal it the whole front center shaft and drive cup with a 3/8" shrink wrap.
Hope this helps...
Feel free to ask if you need any more info. You can email me directly or thru our web site also.
Thanks
Dan

[wcoyote_racer]

Yes Associated has a contract with the person who designed the durango. At $1,196 US dollars and another $70+ for the one way, I don't think that Associated has, or is willing to realize, that the average RC person scoffs at a 1/10 scale electric car at that price. And that is with no electronics, or tires. Heck for that money those drivers should have bought 1/8 scale gas buggies. Better deal for them, and they would have saved money.
I'd love to make a run to Associated and tell them they went the wrong way with duango. They aren't promoting the hobby by racing a car at a price that realistically is not realistic to buy.

Kudos to you guys for doing what you are doing. Promoting the hobby. Lets hope Associated gets the clue.

[TRAGIC CHAOS]

I am glad to see this car take-off, and wish you great success ! Just my 2cents to those scoffing at the price, any hard-core racer will be buying xtra wheels,"with no belts to skip or stretch" it seams obvious to me that shaft drive is the logical direction to go with 4x4 off road.other companys" Yokomo, OFNA, HPI", have seen the light and putting out shaft cars, So you buy a FT-TC3 $289.99 and the TC3-O conversion $199.00= $488.99, the threaded shocks on the FT-TC3 will sell easy for $40.00, Ti turn-buckels and ball-cups= $20.00, Graphite arms=$15.00 just those parts will net $75.00 easy on E-bay, so you score a killer deal on a used TC3 ? their going for about $90.00 to $150.00 on E-bay and again you will have parts that will turn to cash fast!!! I could go on and on, I am not a follower ! and I appreciate the option provided with the TC3-O its based on Assosiated{ A big plus I think** and its not what everybody else runs, From what I see this car is going to kick some major butt ! as I see the 4x4 class getting reserected my interest is incressing,I am sure by this fall {when I get my student loans** This will be the 4x4 I buy ! I wish you all great success with this endeavor. TRAGIC CHAOS

[dreamer_1uk]

Hi,

I am extremely impressed with the TC3-O. I may just buy a used TC3 Sport Chassi and then buy a new TC3-O conversion kit to keep the price down. I have though known about this kit for a while now and I was even thinking of buying a XXX4 but after reading this thread, I am surprised of how well the TC3-O has taken off and just might have to get one for my self :D

For the guys who make the kit, I have a few questions for you:

1) Do you guys plan on selling the full kit?
2) How long would it take for the conversion kit delivery to arrive at my house if I ordered it?
3) How many of these conversions kits have you sold so far?
4) Do you guys have any more plans for the TC3-O in the means of better designs ect.
5) Is there a decal sheet available for the buggy yet?

Thanks,

Dale.

[FSU427P]

I have those exact same questions as Dale does, because I plan on building one this summer. In addition to that, how much modification to the original TC3 chassis needs to be made to fit all of the TC3 "O" parts? Ireally appreciate you guys at RCPD doing somehting like this, because it's great to be different and I think this car just might take over the 4wd class. Screw the Durango guys for charging that much $$ for something that Associated wont even distribute nationally.

[dreamer_1uk]

Hi,

Also, I forgot to ask, do you get the wing mount kit with the conversion as well as no one has talked about that.

Thanks,

Dale.

[FSU427P]

the website says that you have to but your own

[FSU427P]

sorry, meant to say "buy" your own

[FSU427P]

I have another question for the RCPD guys. When I order with the PDF order form, do I include Michigan taxes for my order or do I calculate my state tax to my order?

[perez1410]

What state are you from? Will it be shipped outside the state of Michigan? If so, then no taxes need to be included. If you are in Michigan and will be shipped in Michigan, then yes include the 6% tax along with shipping cost to the total of your order.

Carlos Perez
RC Product Designs

[perez1410]

Wing mount is not unique to this car, therefore we did not tooled one up. You can easily use either a standard wire/wing mount kit or the Losi XXX-4 wing mount as well. The rear shock tower has hole patterns for mounting this one as well.

Carlos

[perez1410]

Originally posted by dreamer_1uk
Hi,

I am extremely impressed with the TC3-O. I may just buy a used TC3 Sport Chassi and then buy a new TC3-O conversion kit to keep the price down. I have though known about this kit for a while now and I was even thinking of buying a XXX4 but after reading this thread, I am surprised of how well the TC3-O has taken off and just might have to get one for my self :D

For the guys who make the kit, I have a few questions for you:

1) Do you guys plan on selling the full kit?
2) How long would it take for the conversion kit delivery to arrive at my house if I ordered it?
3) How many of these conversions kits have you sold so far?
4) Do you guys have any more plans for the TC3-O in the means of better designs ect.
5) Is there a decal sheet available for the buggy yet?

Thanks,

Dale.



Dale, in regards to your questions, at the present time we do not have immediate plans of selling the full kit. That is something we will be looking into further down the road.
The kit is in stock right now, and if I understand correctly you are in the U.K. correct? If so, we are using the International express mail service that they claim between 3 to 7 days. We have sold the full first production run, and are in the process of moving the second batch as well.
MORE PLANS, but of course. We are in the final stages of making our own body design ready, slipper system concepts in the works, among other things that I will not mention yet.
There is a decal sheet that will be included with the kit, but at the present time we ran out. We are in the process of switching suppliers for our decals and getting them re-quoted, so if it ships out without them, do not worry, we will send them to you once they arrive.

Kind Regards,
Carlos Perez

[TRAGIC CHAOS]

That would include every part needed for the conversion except the TC3 and tires ? sounds like a plan to me then your customers don't have to get anything else, and you guys make a bit more $$$ selling the other parts, I'm not sure how much all the other parts add up to but after seeing the price tag on the Durango a TC3-O full kit would probably be around $299.00 + TC3 and tires, you could still offer the same kit you have then call this one the Deluxe !!! I want one !!!:D TRAGIC CHAOS

[gacjr0]

I have a b3/t3 slipper on my tc3 :D

[gacjr0]

heres the parts list:

asc9251 inner slipper
asc9253 inner disc
asc9252 outer slipper
asc4459 bellville washers for stealth II (x2)
asc6599 3/16x3/8 bushing

a few minutes with mr dremel to:

take off a few (3-4)mm from the inner slipper where the slot for the topshaft pin is (cut a little, check for fit in tranny, repeat as necessary) and make new slots, basically make it fit in the tranny the same way the original spur gear mount does,

enlarge the tranny cutout diameter for the slipper hub just slightly,

clean out the ridges in the bearing cap on the other side of the slipper (and thin down one side for slipper/spur fit),

and make room for the slipper/spur assembly by filing/dremeling just a little on the chassis and tranny cases,

take off 1-2 mm from the end of the output shaft (where the center outdrive cup attaches),

with xacto deepen the slots for the pin on the outdrive cup to allow the cup to slide further over the pin on the output shaft,

that allows the outdrive cup to put pressure on the bellville washers pressing on the bearing (which can move front to rear a little now without the bearing cap ridges), more belleville washers, then on to the bushing in the spur!

Enjoy!

[billk]

gacjr0,

Does the slipper work well? Do you have any pictures? I am interested in making one, but I can't quite picture it.

Any info would be appreciated.

Billk

[DJ1978]

We have discussed the possiblity in depth and for now with our business finances so tight we need to stick with providing the parts you can not get anywhere else and let you decide what you will use for the rest.
We figure that most buyers are racers with some experience that would have alot of the items in house already on another vehicle or in their pit boxes.
We have tried hard to think of and provide all the things that are not readily available in a local hobby shop and are exclusive to our TC3 "O".
We will continue to expand the items we carry as the business grows.
Thanks for the encouragement and support.
Dan

[DJ1978]

We are very interested in putting a slipper in the TC3 "O". We are looking at the B4 components for the production version and will begin the prototype work very soon. The reason we are choosing those parts is that the buggy is new and the parts should be around for a long time.
If you want to send some detailed pics of the conversion you made we always appreciate the input and suggestions of fellow racers.
Thanks
Dan

[gacjr0]

Yes its works well, it took so long to reply because I was racing it Sunday. I was also building a B4, and finishing my poor boy TC3 rally conversion/buggy.

I forgot to list the original tc3 aluminum spacer and a couple CVD shims that need to be on that shaft as well. I currently have it between the sets of belleville washers to fill in the space on the output shaft.

I'll work on some pics!

I didn't think about B4 bits because of the newness (wasn't on the parts wall when I was thinking about slippers) , the size of the spurs (too big?) and the width of the whole assembly. Associated still has rc10/t, t2/b2, DS parts out so I bet that the B3 slipper will be available for a while.

That said I would love a fully up to date slipper with possibly better performance on my buggy!

[TRAGIC CHAOS]

I just saw a graphite shock tower for the TC3 made by Megatech, If you all haven't seen it I would suggest you take a look on how they mounted it, www.megatechrc.com TRAGIC CHAOS

[klowne]

must say a very unique and creative design you have come up with. has me thinking seriously of getting one except there arent any off road tracks too close to me to warrant plunking down the dough for one...

if one came up for sale at a reasonable price....i would be interested....




nice work on it guys and hopefully you can someday do a complete kit that has it all....... hehe .... i would plunk down 500 for a complete kit...... just food for thought ........


also what shock are you using on this car? is it the car shocks? or truck ? or is it all car rears all the way around? or car fronts all the way around? that was one thing that i was wondering about the most was the shocks being used.

[gacjr0]

Here they are!
OK two things, I actually have 2 clutch nut clips from a GT in there too. They fit around the pin to the outdrive cup, they provide more pressure on the slipper, and I found out that the stock output cup screw is too long. The 3/8 long button head screw bottomed out on the outdrive pin before fully screwing in (putting pressure on the slipper, and allowing you to vary it); substitute a 1/4 long button head screw. The pin on the slipper side has a drop of super glue on it to make sure it stays there, although pressure should keep it in anyway.

http://http://photo.msn.s8.com/MS8zLzEwNTIyODQzNjIvMS80MDE3LzE1NS8zMi9iTUt2Z2ZRWW owOUxGdGgtWnU5VnRn/06f045b31739977140d54110db02bc1a/clbk=HcZNnT9kkUhYMjAKhshWDYN7s0FLl24p27yf6BOcVrkxj PAnjBMboeiHUt31iJBi1yFthid7cPE$/jpg.jpg

[gacjr0]

http://photo.msn.s8.com/MS8zLzEwNTIyODQzNjIvMS80MDE3LzE1NS8zMi9iTUt2Z2ZRWW owOUxGdGgtWnU5VnRn/06f045b31739977140d54110db02bc1a/clbk=HcZNnT9kkUhYMjAKhshWDYN7s0FLl24p27yf6BOcVrkxj PAnjBMboeiHUt31iJBi1yFthid7cPE$/jpg.jpg

[gacjr0]

http://www.capitaldirtburners.com/bb/viewtopic.php?p=472#472

How about this?

[Dyingslow]

I have just ordered a kit and look forward to building my xxx4 killer! I will post my experiences with the kit on this site. I typically race on blue groove tracks (some dry and some wet) so I'm excited to see how the kit does. The Yokomo's have been the fastest in the past but the xxx4's are starting to gain ground.

Justin
Dyingslow@aol.com

[mochunk]

I was just curious about something, and I appologize if it has been addressed before and I missed it. But would the buggy wheels fit on a stock tc3, with the adapters on of course, or is there a clearance issue with the chassis and the stock length arms? What about with the rally conversion then? Just messing with some ideas. Thanks for any info.

Troll

[GT4eva]

Is there a kit for the nitro TC3 or just the electric car? I realize there is no racing class for 1/10 4wd nitro but my local track would create a class for it in a second ;)

[DJ1978]

klowne-
Thanks for the compliments!! We appreciate it. As time goes on we hope to offer a complete kit. It will be a while though.
You can use any buggy shock on the kit.
We know of people using, Associated, Losi, Schumacher. You just use buggy shocks. Fronts in the front and rears in the rear.

mochunk-
With the wheel adaptors and the Schumacher wheels we sell on our site, The tires will fit on any TC3... I do not know if there would be interference issues! I have never tried it before. Obviously with the body there would be. You would have more of a chance for success with the Rally kit. Better yet... Just get the TC3 "O" Kit and have some fun!!!!
If I were going to try in on a TC3 or TC3 Rally. I would use Buggy Fronts all the way around.

Now you have me curious and I just tried it.. On a TC3.. Fronts fit but rub the chassis when fully turned, you would have to trim the fornt bumper away. We use a rear bumper on the front.
Rears rub the side of the chassis all the time.. Fronts fit in the rear with no trouble.
I am sure with a Rally Kit, the fronts would fit all the way around and maybe the rear would fit too. The shocks all clear.! That was FUN!!

GT4eva-
We only make the conversion for the electric. We have discussed the nitro and maybe when we can pick up a used one at a reasonable price we might try it. Never say never.

Thank you all for you questions and input we appreciate it!!!
Dan
RC Product Designs

[gacjr0]

http://www.rc10b4.com/forum/attachment.php?s=&postid=3699
http://www.rc10b4.com/forum/attachment.php?s=&postid=3700
http://www.rc10b4.com/forum/attachment.php?s=&postid=3701
http://www.rc10b4.com/forum/attachment.php?s=&postid=3726
http://www.rc10b4.com/forum/attachment.php?s=&postid=3725

Slipper and suspension shots of my TC3 Rally+

Those are just HPI super nitro wheels, next time I'll try B3 widebody rears because they look like they have more offset and are wider too.

How much is it for a full RCPD conversion?

[tallyrc]

gac, can you please get some more pics of your car, and maybe some parts lists to make what you have done? thanks.

[Dyingslow]

Team RCPD,

I finally got my TC3 "O" kit put together and had a chance to run it on my local track last night. The car works very well and is very durable. I managed to roll it a couple times with no problems (rolls that would of easily broke a xxx-4 shock tower).

Your suggested shock oil (35 front and 25 rear) is just way too soft for the bumps and jumps at my track. I will try running something like 45-50 front and 35-40 rear next time. The car also had a real difficult time with the washboards and some "small" jumps causing the rear end to shoot up into the air like a rocket. I added 2 washers underneath the forward rear A-arm mount which almost eliminated the problem. I think by using thicker shock oil in the rear the car will cruise through the bumps.

I have the roll centers of the front and rear almost identical (possible using a xxx-s rear hub carrier). With the current set-up I find the rear end to be a little loose. Which was very helpful for some of the tight corners.

Anyhow, I will keep you updated as things progress. The next update I hope to have a direct comparision from a race with a xxx-4.

Justin
Dyingslow@aol.com

[DJ1978]

Justin,
Sounds like you have a handle on dialing it in for your track.. Keep us posted and Have FUN!!
Dan

[SCHMACH]

hey dj,did you guys get your machining equipment up and running yet? if so, if i sent you guys a set of t3 arms could you make the tc3 arms you guys made to the length? and what would it cost? thanks

[perez1410]

Yes, the equipment is up and running. Please send us an e-mail directly to rcproductdesigns@comcast.net detailing the specifics of what you would like.

As you may be aware off, we do offer custom machining as well.

Kind Regards,
Carlos Perez
RC Product Designs

[tallyrc]

can anybody see these pics of my buggy? i wa having probs on another site...http://www.geocities.com/rcdude1/b-4x4rear.jpg http://www.geocities.com/rcdude1/b-4x4.jpg http://www.geocities.com/rcdude1/proto2.jpg

[Dyingslow]

I had to leave the hobby for a few weeks since the recent addition to my family, but am looking forward to getting the buggy back on the track.

Has there been any recent developments on the buggy that I should be aware of? I notice that Neil Cragg is now running a Yokomo instead of the TC3-O. Was there any particular reason for the change? I noticed that "out of the box" the cars do not do so well in the rough, but with a little tweaking here and there I'm confident that it is competative. I will be racing in a large local event on August 16 through 17 and will be able to get an update to you by then.

Justin

[Dyingslow]

To anyone consdering purchasing the vehicle, DO IT! You will not be disappointed! I was able to run around the track with a couple pro 2wd mod buggies and I can honestly say that the TC3 "O" could easily keep up with them on the straights and out accelerate them coming out of corners. This is especially interesting considering I am not properly geared yet...

The TC3 "O" out of the box was damped too light to handle the bumps and jumps at my local track so I've rebuilt the shock using RPM shock pistons and increasing the oil viscosity. So far the car feels very planted and easiy to control. I had some issues with the washboards, but I knoticed that all the xxx4's had the same problem with the washboards. By adjusting the kick-up in the rear suspension I've been able to significantly improve rough track stability. Unfortunately I smapped a steering knuckle carrier during the main when I brushed a pipe. It was very disappointed considering I was 1/3 of a lap ahead of second place by the 3 lap. The car was flying. I have a big race the weekend on August 16 and 17 so more updates should be on the way!

For all those people who think the kit is too much money, then please remember that no buggy out there runs perfectly out of the box. Even the people I know with the latest xxx4 kits are spending humbdreds of dollars on top of it to keep it durable and quick. So pick up a TC3 kit from ebay and TC3 "O" conversion from RCPD and let's slowly start converting people!

Until next time!
Dyingslow@aol.com

[MagicD]

Just wondering what was up in RC Product Designs world.

What's the progress on the TC3O:
1) Body
2) Slipper
3) Shock Towers
4) Anything else

Also, if someday I can actually afford to buy one of these kits, I'd like to machine myself a custom woven graphite chassis similar in style to this one:
http://www.teamirsrc.com/images/irs150.jpg

[Northerner]

i bought my buggy a few weeks ago and the guy i got it from installed a sweet slipper, but i really havent been able to test the buggy since my esc died and i have to send it in.

http://home.mchsi.com/~northerner/002.gifhttp://home.mchsi.com/~northerner/005.gif

[Downforce]

Originally posted by MagicD
Just wondering what was up in RC Product Designs world.

What's the progress on the TC3O:
1) Body
2) Slipper
3) Shock Towers
4) Anything else

Also, if someday I can actually afford to buy one of these kits, I'd like to machine myself a custom woven graphite chassis similar in style to this one:
http://www.teamirsrc.com/images/irs150.jpg

1)Body- They may have a few of their prototypes left. Just e-mail them.
2)Slipper-still in the works
3)Shock towers-They have some prototypes on their cars right now.
4)Anything else-This suprised me and they look Sweet. Graphite main drive shaft. Instead of the heavy longer aluminum one. Also lightend front kickups maybe available soon. They also got hooked up with MIP for their cvd's. Opps! allmost forgot this one. I seen a graghite brace from the front bulk head to the steering posts on Carlos's car.

[DJ1978]

MagicD,
What Chassis is that??? That looks like it will work for the TC3 "O"!! I have a Mega Tech TC3 Chassis, that one will not work... They undercut the width of the chassis under the Diffs and that makes it too narrow to mount the Chassis Extension plate in the front.

Northerner:
I do not know who did that Slipper. But it looks like they did a very nice job. If you take it apart... we would appreciate pictures of it.
Thanks
Dan

[perez1410]

Magic, yes we have been quite busy lately. On a personal level, we just have a newborn here at home. It has taken quite a bit of my time as you all may know, but anyway this is what we have been up to lately:

Body: We still have some prototype bodies left. E-mail us directly if you are interested in one. Dan will be doing a bit more of mold work before we pour the final version.

Slipper: Still in the works, but I have some pictures that I will post of my car's front differential. I purposely ran the car all winter season, spring and summer without rebuilding the diff's trying to see how much durability I get out of them. Here is what I found....inner assembly looked very clean, gear teeth looking a bit more sharper, but no noticeable/excessive wear in the bevel gears. I opened it up, the thrust bearings had some dirt, but inside the diff....totally clean. I removed all the grease, clean the balls, the space where the balls seat on the plastic gear had worn down a bit and the ring itself showed a bit of wear too. Not extensive though. I kept track of how many times I used the diff during races and practice packs...up to a point that I noticed the diff a bit notchy/not very smooth. I put a total of 60 runs in the front diff. I kept the rear intact, and still running right now with a total of 70 runs...and still going strong. This in my mind confirms that the only need for a slipper system in our car would be for controlling the amount of power the car puts down on slippery surfaces....NOT to save diff gears. They have proven to be very durable.


Shock towers: Currently running prototypes in our cars. Single piece carbon fibre shock towers (front and rear) with a nylon base attached to the diff gear box. Lighter than the standard setup.

Front chassis extension kick up plate: Lighter version in the works running in our prototypes.

Steering chassis brace: Currently running in our prototypes a single piece carbon fibre brace....very light and strong.

Center drive shaft: Currently running in our prototypes a carbon fibre drive shaft unit with aluminum milled end pieces. Extremely light and durable. Still testing various designs.....

CVD's: Yes they are made by MIP exclusively for us. The kit comes with 4 CVD's.

....more in the works......

I will post some pictures of what I just mentioned above for you guys to see in advance!

Kind Regards,
Carlos Perez
RC Product Designs

[Northerner]

well, i hate to do it, but im needing to build a new computer system for my heavy gaming addiction so im selling my tc3-O

its in great condition and the pics have already been posted above. no electronics but includes a new set of extra a-arms, wheels/tires.

i will take $325 shipped for it to usa

i take paypal (confirmed address) or postal money order

no trades unless for highend pc components

[MagicD]

That chassis is available here: Irrgang Racing Service (http://www.teamirsrc.com/tc3.html)

It's a bit pricey at $175 but it looks to be very nicely machined.

I'm looking into the possibility of buying only their motor mount and attaching it to a custom machined, 1 piece chassis w/ upper deck and eleminate the need to have a chassis extender/kickup plate. Motor mount alone is $54. I've got the majority of the chassis designed, I just need to come up with the cash to actually make it. :D

[Marciano1969]

There is a nice blow up of the slipper on this site, hope you don't mind showing it off,

http://rc10b4.com/forum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=950&perpage=15&pagenumber=2

[DJ1978]

Thanks!! I appreciate it.

[MagicD]

I was wondering if anyone has put a novak brushless system into their TC3O? If so, what'd ya think?

I'll be racing mine in club Mod-Open class so I'm pretty sure they'll allow brushless, and never having to cut a comm and change brushess again sounds too good to pass up. :D

[DJ1978]

Magic,
I have never heard of one in a TC3 "O".
My buddy has one in his TC3 and he runs with the Nitro Touring guys. It is wild. Let us know if you do it and how it turns out.
Dan

[mcquto]

I am concidering a TC3O to replace my XXX4 (I'm an associated guy at heart) But the only one I have seen belongs to a guy at my local track. He let me drive it but it didn't corner worth a darn. The front wheels hardly even turn. By that I mean that compared to my XXX4 the angle is only about 1/2 the degree. He said that this was as far as they went. Is this normal or does he have something set up wrong on his car? I obviously can start making adjustments to somebody elses car to experiment.

[DJ1978]

Mcquto,
Have him contact us....... We have upgraded the steering and he may have the old system in his car. If he does we will send him the new updated versio free of charge. If he already has the updated system.... Then we can talk him thru getting maximum steering from the car. The car is VERY Competitive and really handles great when set up properly.
Thanks
Dan

[mcquto]

I appreciate the response. He got his kit about 2 months ago. I am trying to find a good deal on a TC3 to convert. I like my XXX4 but I think it would be fun to drive something different against all the other XXX4's. When it is compleated, I will be running in the 4WD open class with a Novak brushless set up. How has the drive train held up to very tourqey motors in your testing?

[DJ1978]

I usually run a 10 or 12 double, Carlos, my business partner runs 8,9, or 10 turns.
He has been doing a durability test on the diffs... No rebuilds or cleaning He has over 60 heats on the front diff and 75 on the rear.
We Now have MIP Steel CVD's standard in the kit all the way around.
The whole package is very durable and has proven to be very competitive.
Please have him contact us.. have him send some pics of the steering set up to rcproductdesigns@comcast.net and I am sure we can help him figure out the steering issue.
Thanks for the interest.
Dan

[mcquto]

Thanks. I'll talk to him this wed. night at the races.

[mcquto]

Originally posted by perez1410
Magic, yes we have been quite busy lately. On a personal level, we just have a newborn here at home. It has taken quite a bit of my time as you all may know, but anyway this is what we have been up to lately:

Body: We still have some prototype bodies left. E-mail us directly if you are interested in one. Dan will be doing a bit more of mold work before we pour the final version.

Slipper: Still in the works, but I have some pictures that I will post of my car's front differential. I purposely ran the car all winter season, spring and summer without rebuilding the diff's trying to see how much durability I get out of them. Here is what I found....inner assembly looked very clean, gear teeth looking a bit more sharper, but no noticeable/excessive wear in the bevel gears. I opened it up, the thrust bearings had some dirt, but inside the diff....totally clean. I removed all the grease, clean the balls, the space where the balls seat on the plastic gear had worn down a bit and the ring itself showed a bit of wear too. Not extensive though. I kept track of how many times I used the diff during races and practice packs...up to a point that I noticed the diff a bit notchy/not very smooth. I put a total of 60 runs in the front diff. I kept the rear intact, and still running right now with a total of 70 runs...and still going strong. This in my mind confirms that the only need for a slipper system in our car would be for controlling the amount of power the car puts down on slippery surfaces....NOT to save diff gears. They have proven to be very durable.


Shock towers: Currently running prototypes in our cars. Single piece carbon fibre shock towers (front and rear) with a nylon base attached to the diff gear box. Lighter than the standard setup.

Front chassis extension kick up plate: Lighter version in the works running in our prototypes.

Steering chassis brace: Currently running in our prototypes a single piece carbon fibre brace....very light and strong.

Center drive shaft: Currently running in our prototypes a carbon fibre drive shaft unit with aluminum milled end pieces. Extremely light and durable. Still testing various designs.....

CVD's: Yes they are made by MIP exclusively for us. The kit comes with 4 CVD's.

....more in the works......

I will post some pictures of what I just mentioned above for you guys to see in advance!

Kind Regards,
Carlos Perez
RC Product Designs

It may be a bit premature to ask this but I am really close to ordering the kit from you guys and was wondering if you knew when the new parts will start to be included with the kit? I would hate to buy it and then see them become avail. shortly afterward. I am very close to listing my XXX4 on Ebay but I want to make sure that I get the top stuff when I order. 2nd question, is it possible to use a different type of wheel hub so I can use standard shop available rims with your kit (Losi or Associated)? My local track doesn't carry the Scumacher rims.

[MagicD]

I will post some pictures of what I just mentioned above for you guys to see in advance!


BRING ON THE PICTURES! :D

[Downforce]

Originally posted by mcquto
It may be a bit premature to ask this but I am really close to ordering the kit from you guys and was wondering if you knew when the new parts will start to be included with the kit? I would hate to buy it and then see them become avail. shortly afterward. I am very close to listing my XXX4 on Ebay but I want to make sure that I get the top stuff when I order. 2nd question, is it possible to use a different type of wheel hub so I can use standard shop available rims with your kit (Losi or Associated)? My local track doesn't carry the Scumacher rims.
You may have to modify some wheels to fit. But the reason they use the Schuie wheels is because of the larger wheel hex. With the lack of a slipper in the prototype stage of the car they were ripping out the centers of the losi and asscociated wheels. Besides if you're going to order the car from them just order some of them at the same time, they sell them also.

[Stocker452]

only about 300 $ for all the things you need I must HVAE IT

[Dyingslow]

Hello All,

It has been a long time since my last post. My racing this season has been affect by some personal issues this year, but I look forward to getting more active in the months to come.

Anyhow, I've noticed in some of the other posts/comments about the steering throw on the kit. I noticed on my kit the front wheels only turn half the amount compared to a XXX-4. Currently I am running the associated 4 deg. blocks and graphite carriers. I think I am running the updated steering rack though. I am not running the aluminum extensions on the knuckles because of durability concerns. None-the-less, the knuckles are hitting the stops so more steering seems impossible. With all that said I can still out "corner" most of the 4wd cars at the track. I think this is due to the ability to slide the rear end at will around corners. The only time the steering limitation is an issue for me is during crawling speeds (IE corner marshall facing me the wrong way...)

I've tried to follow the posts about the diffs and I have to disagree with the rear diff durability. The track I race on tends to have large jumps and many ruts