First Build Advice - Monster Beetle (2015)

[Maxeysm 20]

Hello there! I have always loved Tamiya, have built their scale models for years, and am excited to make the jump to RC!  I chose to build the Monster Beetle (2015) as my first kit.  I had heard that this was a great looking basher, and a great platform to start with? So far, this is what I have: Radiolink RC4GS transmitter and receiver, Futaba S3004 servo, 3600mAh NiMH batteries x2, charger and I also have a set of Fast Eddy bearings on the way......I assume i need an ESC to complete the kit?  I would appreciate any advice or suggestions on which to get!  Any other suggestions would be welcomed!!  Thank you so much and I look forward to updating the build as it progresses!  

[markbt73 6272]

Good choice! Yes, if the kit didn't include an ESC, you'll need one. The best inexpensive choice is a Hobbywing Quicrun 1060, it's available for around $20-23 (or equivalent) from most online hobby shops, or else they're all over eBay.

I haven't built a re-release Monster Beetle (though I've had a couple of originals) and I rememeber reading something about the new-style of rear axles needing some attention, maybe some shims or something? Hopefully someone else can chime in on this.

[alvinlwh 8062]

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[ADRay1000 745]

Congrats on the MB. It was my first new Tamiya in about 20 years. While it’s a cool looking fun little car, I’ve found it’s also pretty top heavy and the body and related mounting points are pretty delicate. I’ll echo that the gearbox and drive shafts are pretty fickle. I’ve found that regularly checking and tightening the screws that hold the gearbox together and packing the differential with a ton of grease helps. Mine is stock with ball bearings and an aluminum servo horn. 

[Maxeysm 20]

And the build continues! 

[Kowalski86 5013]

I'd suggest ordering one of @Xeostars transmission braces, the MIP diff is the "ultimate fix" for the transmission issues, but it's much more expensive.

[Maxeysm 20]

I would like to get one.  How do I go about ordering one?  Thank you so much for the advice!  Love it! 

[Kowalski86 5013]

38 minutes ago, Maxeysm said:

I would like to get one.  How do I go about ordering one?  Thank you so much for the advice!  Love it! 

This should help:

if you stick to running the silver can it should hold together well enough.

Also, if you want a lexan body shell for running, look up "Sabula Tech". They have a Sand Scorcher/Monster Beetle lexan shell thats pretty durable while being reasonably priced.

I will caution you on the tires, they're great in grass and dirt, but the pin spikes will round out very quickly on asphalt. Some Blackfoot wheels/tires would make a decent asphalt alternative if you want to preserve the stock tires.

Try to use just a tiny bit of the yellow anti wear grease on the self tapper screws. It reduces friction which is good for the plastic, and makes it easier to avoid screwing them in too much. I try to do this on all of my ABS/Tap screw Tamiyas.

Finally, it's worth using the little fiber disc for your motor. The ORV transmission sides can act as a heatsink if your motor gets warm, which in turn loosens it up. The disc helps to reduce this effect.

[Evetsyelspih 124]

I have one waiting to be built in the new year. Got bearings and I just ordered the MIP ball diff from Amazon where it is on sale right now. Expensive upgrade but from what I’ve seen on YouTube it’s worth it. My kit came with a Hobbywing 1060 esc.

[Maxeysm 20]

All decal’s up! 😊 Not too bad for brake caliper paint! 😂

[Kowalski86 5013]

40 minutes ago, Evetsyelspih said:

I have one waiting to be built in the new year. Got bearings and I just ordered the MIP ball diff from Amazon where it is on sale right now.

It's currently $58 on Amazon for anyone who needs one, I think its a decent upgrade if a bit expensive. I'd sooner just occasionally renew the spider gears with how cheap they are.

[GToddC5 2915]

1 hour ago, Evetsyelspih said:

I have one waiting to be built in the new year. Got bearings and I just ordered the MIP ball diff from Amazon where it is on sale right now. Expensive upgrade but from what I’ve seen on YouTube it’s worth it. My kit came with a Hobbywing 1060 esc.

Thanks for the heads up - ordered!

[smirk-racing 254]

If you want expensive upgrades, here's one option:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/314773498590

I bought a similar one from a guy who made them by hand (in the UK actually) but haven't had a chance to install it yet. I am excited about the vastly overbuilt parts I have waiting for the blackfoot

 

[mtbkym01 4914]

Interesting build mat 

[Maxeysm 20]

Decided to go with a light kit! It helps me out loads at night with recognizing direction when way out there

[Maxeysm 20]