It is sad to see so many guys having trouble setting-up and/or programing their new tanks. As for Tamiya electronics and quality control, I have had very few problems over the years. My biggest complaint would be the slipper clutches are too loose. I weld most of them solid anyway except for first time tankers. Many issues with recoil and barrel trouble are alignment issues. Usually it is the recoil unit bracket on the rear of the mantlet is not parallel with the tank barrel bore. If it is too high or too low the mantlet bracket needs gentle bending. The barrel recoil mount tends to hang up on the front edge of the recoil unit or the offending center bolt mentioned above (Helpful Hint: Put a dab of glue or tape over the nut on the bottom of recoil unit. When it does come loose it falls into the tank often to disappear or even worse...enter an uncovered gearbox).

I also pre-test all the electronics, strobe, recoil and motors before I assemble any tank. When would you like to find out you have a defective part???...just when you need most (or after it is all assembled) or when you have time to get a replacement.
Here is a video of some pre-testing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pgc-vuQmaTE

FYI: If anyone would like to borrow (free) a Futaba 4YF radio & receiver system to test or set up a new tank.... please PM me. It is customized for RC tanking with self centering joy-sticks and a remote fire switch for the main gun and machine gun. K.I.S.S. Just return it when you are done.

Bob, rctankcommand.com NEAD CO