Notices
RC Classic Cars & Trucks Have a classic that is at least 15 years or older? Discuss it here!

Tamiya TA-03F Resource Thread!

Old 08-18-2008, 01:06 PM
  #1  
Lunchboxer
Thread Starter
 
Lunchboxer's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2006
Location: Longmeadow, MA
Posts: 56,176
Likes: 0
Received 3 Likes on 3 Posts
Default Tamiya TA-03F Resource Thread!

Got one of these coming in.. figured that we need a place to talk about this unique chassis!

I like stuff that's odd.. (ah, hmm, unique..) This one qualifies for sure.. having the motor all the way at the front.. ha!!

As usual, pictures, discussion, questions, researches, knowledge sharing are welcome at this thread!
Old 08-18-2008, 01:17 PM
  #2  
Lunchboxer
Thread Starter
 
Lunchboxer's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2006
Location: Longmeadow, MA
Posts: 56,176
Likes: 0
Received 3 Likes on 3 Posts
Default RE: Tamiya TA-03F Resource Thread!

The one I got coming in is kit # 58189, the Martini Alfa Romeo 155 V6!

http://www.tamiyausa.com/product/ite...oduct-id=58189
Attached Thumbnails Click image for larger version

Name:	Yw66374.jpg
Views:	127
Size:	18.6 KB
ID:	1014159  
Old 08-18-2008, 01:19 PM
  #3  
Lunchboxer
Thread Starter
 
Lunchboxer's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2006
Location: Longmeadow, MA
Posts: 56,176
Likes: 0
Received 3 Likes on 3 Posts
Default RE: Tamiya TA-03F Resource Thread!


Here's a video of it in action!! [sm=thumbup.gif]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O_KrFCdMOxw
Old 08-18-2008, 01:25 PM
  #4  
Lunchboxer
Thread Starter
 
Lunchboxer's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2006
Location: Longmeadow, MA
Posts: 56,176
Likes: 0
Received 3 Likes on 3 Posts
Default RE: Tamiya TA-03F Resource Thread!

TA-03F Pro setup tips from Tamiya!

http://www.tamiyausa.com/articles/fe...?article-id=17


TA03F Pro Setup Tips


The TA03F Pro is Tamiya's third generation 4WD racing chassis. This chassis incorporates years of development to provide stable handling characteristics, making this car suitable for both beginners and expert drivers.

Be sure that all parts and equipment are in good condition. Any worn or damaged parts should be replaced.

Differential Assembly
When assembling the differentials DO NOT polish or prepare the parts other than the way it comes in the kit or hop-up. Assemble the differentials as per instructions.

Tighten the differential bolt until it stops, DO NOT use excessive force. The differential should feel smooth but not free. If the differential is too loose or too free the car will react inconsistently and have a squirrelly and loose feel.

Replace the thrust bearing assembly with a 5x11mm ball bearing and two large cone washers clamshelled. This provides a simple and smooth differential setup. A properly setup thrust bearing assembly will have the same effect.

Gears
The gears on the TA03 should have a thin coating of grease such as Tamiya's Ceramic Greas" #87025 which is made just for that purpose. All gears have some gear lash and a coating of grease on the gears dampen the lash resulting in a quieter, more efficient driveline.

Counter Shafts
If your TA03 makes a clicking noise, you can correct the problem by adding a small amount of blue threadlock to the 5x11mm and 3x7mm bearing surfaces on both front and rear counter shafts. Use only enough threadlock to coat the bearing surface. Any excess threadlock may enter the bearing or harm surrounding plastic.

The Suspension
The car?s suspension with the dampers removed should move freely. The upper arms provide just the right amount of camber. If you are using the adjustable arm set, the original camber angles are recommended. The stock caster angle of the TA03 is 8 degrees. Using the TA02 caster blocks will decrease the amount of caster to 3 degrees. This makes the car react much more quickly and provides more steering. When using the TA02 caster blocks, one or two washers must be added between the upper arm and the caster block; also two additional washers must be added under the 5mm ball connecters on the steering bell cranks (this corrects bump steer). One black o-ring must be installed in the front joint cups to prevent the drive shafts from falling out. The TA03F Pro kit comes with both front and rear sway bars. Using the TA02 caster blocks prohibits the use of the front sway bar. Removing both front and rear bars allows the chassis to roll a bit more in the corners giving more traction and turn-in.

Dampers And Springs
The original dampers provided in the kit are excellent and should be assembled as per instructions. 80w oil is a good alternative to the original oil when rebuilding the dampers. The blue springs from the "Tuned Spring Set" #53163, should be used in front and rear. This combination provides a perfect match between the spring rate and oil. If the dampers are too firm the car will be very unforgiving on curbs or corner dots, drift excessively and may even chatter in the corners. If the dampers are too soft the car will have excessive roll and react very slow. Once the dampers are on the car your ride height should be 4mm to 5mm and level to the surface.

Servo Setup
Tamiya?s "Hi-Torque Servo Saver" #50473 is recommended. It is very important that the servo saver sits 90 degrees to the chassis in the neutral position. Do not use excessive toe in or toe out settings (start with 0 degrees). Once the steering is set up, check to MAKE SURE the car turns circles equally both ways.

Wheels Tires and Inserts
Tamiya wheels have more value than just the scale appearance. There are several different offsets available. First is what is called the standard offset followed by the 2mm offset, the 4WD truck wheels and the two-piece wheels, all of which can be used to adjust the width of the front and rear of your car. With those adjustments you can fine tune the balance of your car. Wide rear wheels are also an option however the TA03 seems to work best with standard width wheels and tires.

Start with the tire that provides the most grip, such as Tamiya's Super Slick tires #53220. Use the same compound tire in front and rear, otherwise the overall balance of the car?s handling will be compromised. Inserts are equally important, Tamiya?s Hard Inner Sponge Set #53156 works very well as do the Soft Shaped Inserts #53250. The "Hard Inner Sponge" will usually provide the most tracion, but due to the amount of traction the TA03 tends to understeer a bit. The "Soft Shaped Inserts" however have less grip and slide more but because the TA03 is so stable both types of inserts will work well.

Battery
The TA03 has two battery positions to chose from. The instructions recommend the rearward position; for more steering move the battery foward. Tamiya also makes an optional Carbon Battery Plate Set that replaces the original battery box, #53261. This allows for side by side stick packs and reduces the weight of the car.

Belt and Pulleys
The TA03 comes with two 15-tooth pulleys and two 16-tooth pulleys as well as a belt tentioner. Use the 16 tooth pulleys and remove the belt tentioner. The 16 tooth pulleys provide the most surface area for the belt, and removing the belt tentioner makes the belt as free as possible. When the belt gets older and begins to stretch install the belt tentioner.

Conclusion
This setup is a result of extensive testing and development from Tamiya's factory drivers as well as myself, Gary Demory, Tamiya America Inc., Sr. Cutomer Service Representative, and the designer of the TA03F Pro. Each person?s driving style may be different and adjustments can be made to suit each individual.
Old 08-18-2008, 01:30 PM
  #5  
Lunchboxer
Thread Starter
 
Lunchboxer's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2006
Location: Longmeadow, MA
Posts: 56,176
Likes: 0
Received 3 Likes on 3 Posts
Default RE: Tamiya TA-03F Resource Thread!


Tamiya also made a short wheelbase variation of the TA-03F, called TA-03F-S, with 237mm wheelbase. (standard setup = 257mm)
Attached Thumbnails Click image for larger version

Name:	Hf99991.jpg
Views:	112
Size:	64.4 KB
ID:	1014162   Click image for larger version

Name:	Ni23564.jpg
Views:	201
Size:	37.0 KB
ID:	1014163  
Old 08-18-2008, 02:03 PM
  #6  
Lunchboxer
Thread Starter
 
Lunchboxer's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2006
Location: Longmeadow, MA
Posts: 56,176
Likes: 0
Received 3 Likes on 3 Posts
Default RE: Tamiya TA-03F Resource Thread!


VERY interesting 4WS setup on the TA-03F Pro!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DoVPoiXHNU4
Old 08-18-2008, 02:21 PM
  #7  
Lunchboxer
Thread Starter
 
Lunchboxer's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2006
Location: Longmeadow, MA
Posts: 56,176
Likes: 0
Received 3 Likes on 3 Posts
Default RE: Tamiya TA-03F Resource Thread!


Here's a TA-03F Pro w/ a lot of hop-ups!!
Attached Thumbnails Click image for larger version

Name:	Wu62216.jpg
Views:	205
Size:	100.3 KB
ID:	1014212   Click image for larger version

Name:	Bw70972.jpg
Views:	157
Size:	103.1 KB
ID:	1014213   Click image for larger version

Name:	Pu50772.jpg
Views:	145
Size:	84.8 KB
ID:	1014214   Click image for larger version

Name:	Dx66090.jpg
Views:	182
Size:	95.3 KB
ID:	1014215   Click image for larger version

Name:	Us55097.jpg
Views:	190
Size:	119.4 KB
ID:	1014216   Click image for larger version

Name:	Hc91632.jpg
Views:	128
Size:	96.8 KB
ID:	1014217  
Old 08-18-2008, 02:33 PM
  #8  
lee172
 
lee172's Avatar
 
Join Date: Sep 2006
Location: Midlands, UNITED KINGDOM
Posts: 8,217
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Default RE: Tamiya TA-03F Resource Thread!

my TA-03F Pro, with no hop-ups!

an amazing array of hop-ups available though... depends how deep your wallet is!! http://www.goldstarstockists.net/tampdf/58189.pdf

Attached Thumbnails Click image for larger version

Name:	Rp43528.jpg
Views:	122
Size:	107.7 KB
ID:	1014223  
Old 08-18-2008, 02:35 PM
  #9  
Lunchboxer
Thread Starter
 
Lunchboxer's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2006
Location: Longmeadow, MA
Posts: 56,176
Likes: 0
Received 3 Likes on 3 Posts
Default RE: Tamiya TA-03F Resource Thread!

I only have the regular "F", but it does have a very nice shell!! The Alfa looks awesome! (see the video.. !)

I should have the kit today... if the tracking is correct! Will post pic when I get home!
Old 08-18-2008, 02:58 PM
  #10  
Lunchboxer
Thread Starter
 
Lunchboxer's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2006
Location: Longmeadow, MA
Posts: 56,176
Likes: 0
Received 3 Likes on 3 Posts
Default RE: Tamiya TA-03F Resource Thread!

An interesting comparison between the HPI Pro-D and the TA-03F! (wrt drifting)

http://www.zerorc.com/hpi-pro-d-vs-tamiya-ta03f





HPI have finally got the drop on their main drift rivals Yokomo, and come out with a ‘revolutionary’ drifting car – the HPI Pro-D. With a carbon main chassis, carbon upper deck and orange anodised aluminium bulkheads, it's a very slick design. Only one question remains...

Why has it taken this long for a manufacturer to come out with this kind of chassis – not one that's a re-hash of another model, but a specific drift chassis? Tamiya, by shear fluke, have already created the perfect drifting chassis, and discontinued it before people even realised that you could drift RC cars – namely the Tamiya TA03F. Since the TA03F is no longer supported by Tamiya, parts and chassis’ are nigh on impossible to get hold of, so some competitive drift series have created rules specifically to ban this car.

So what made the TA03F so great at drifting? Well, good drifting is all about weight good distribution. You'll find most drifters will add a lot of weight to the front bumper so that the front tires will be pushed down and grip more than the rear, and also to give a point for the rear of the car to swing around. The TA03F was created with equal weight distribution to the left and right in mind, so the motor was moved to the front of the car to avoid the drive belts. This in turn provided the necessary weight sitting on the front wheels. Perfect left and right weight distribution also means the battery must be placed across the chassis, rather than along side the centre line. Take a look:

So what of this ‘revolutionary’ Pro-D chassis of HPI? The HPI Pro-D has the battery placed across the chassis. Moreover, the Pro-D is not belt driven, but shaft driven, which gives the driver a much more direct feel and much sharper throttle response. To move the motor closer to the centre line, the shaft has been moved off centre. This improves the balace as the motor is not so off-set. And what about looks? The HPI Pro-D looks fantastic. Drift not only requires skill, but ‘shock and awe’ bling. The Tamiya TA03F, with is black plastic everywhere, is a sore loser in this department.

Our verdict: Currently this is only available in Japan, and at a price of 52000 yen (about $450) for just the chassis kit - only hardcore drifters need apply. Although this isn't overpriced considering the specification, the now obsolete TA03 will perform just as well, and these can be picked up reasonably cheaply on ebay. If any of you have a cousin or a brother with an old RC kicking about in the loft, go and have a look, it might just be one of these gems.
Attached Thumbnails Click image for larger version

Name:	Ge96781.jpg
Views:	127
Size:	30.7 KB
ID:	1014228   Click image for larger version

Name:	Ni22463.jpg
Views:	123
Size:	28.7 KB
ID:	1014229  
Old 08-18-2008, 03:01 PM
  #11  
Lunchboxer
Thread Starter
 
Lunchboxer's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2006
Location: Longmeadow, MA
Posts: 56,176
Likes: 0
Received 3 Likes on 3 Posts
Default RE: Tamiya TA-03F Resource Thread!


Analysis and background of the chassis (TA-03F Pro) from the Classic Tamiya RC website:

http://classictamiyarc.com/tamcars39.html
Old 08-18-2008, 03:08 PM
  #12  
86waterpumper
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Aug 2006
Location: , TN
Posts: 939
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Default RE: Tamiya TA-03F Resource Thread!

So are you going to drift with it or what? get you some of these [&:] http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cUAgZ8djnnA
Old 08-18-2008, 03:09 PM
  #13  
Lunchboxer
Thread Starter
 
Lunchboxer's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2006
Location: Longmeadow, MA
Posts: 56,176
Likes: 0
Received 3 Likes on 3 Posts
Default RE: Tamiya TA-03F Resource Thread!

Don't know yet, since I got the TB-02 as a dedicated drifter already... I will decide later..
Old 08-19-2008, 06:02 AM
  #14  
rcluke
Senior Member
 
rcluke's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: Stockton-on-TeesEngland, UNITED KINGDOM
Posts: 5,476
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Default RE: Tamiya TA-03F Resource Thread!

sweet Lb, i love the alfa shell
Old 08-19-2008, 07:30 AM
  #15  
The Hedgehog
 
The Hedgehog's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2006
Location: , CT
Posts: 9,999
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Default RE: Tamiya TA-03F Resource Thread!

Sorry guys, LB didn't post tonight about the TA-03F because I went to his place and stole the package before he could arrive. [:@]
Old 08-19-2008, 08:40 AM
  #16  
Lunchboxer
Thread Starter
 
Lunchboxer's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2006
Location: Longmeadow, MA
Posts: 56,176
Likes: 0
Received 3 Likes on 3 Posts
Default RE: Tamiya TA-03F Resource Thread!

LOL, no wonder I couldn't find the package yesterday.... [:@]

It should arrive today.. if UPS is on time!!
Old 08-19-2008, 10:06 PM
  #17  
Lunchboxer
Thread Starter
 
Lunchboxer's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2006
Location: Longmeadow, MA
Posts: 56,176
Likes: 0
Received 3 Likes on 3 Posts
Default RE: Tamiya TA-03F Resource Thread!


Martini Alfa Romeo 155 in da house!!
Attached Thumbnails Click image for larger version

Name:	Wu59959.jpg
Views:	105
Size:	78.4 KB
ID:	1015307  
Old 08-20-2008, 06:24 AM
  #18  
rcluke
Senior Member
 
rcluke's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: Stockton-on-TeesEngland, UNITED KINGDOM
Posts: 5,476
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Default RE: Tamiya TA-03F Resource Thread!


ORIGINAL: Lunchboxer


Martini Alfa Romeo 155 in da house!!
sweet.

START THE BUILD,

START THE BUILD,

START THE BUILD,

START THE BUILD,

START THE BUILD,

lol
Old 08-20-2008, 08:19 AM
  #19  
Lunchboxer
Thread Starter
 
Lunchboxer's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2006
Location: Longmeadow, MA
Posts: 56,176
Likes: 0
Received 3 Likes on 3 Posts
Default RE: Tamiya TA-03F Resource Thread!


A couple more shots of the kit!
Attached Thumbnails Click image for larger version

Name:	Ro41638.jpg
Views:	91
Size:	83.7 KB
ID:	1015452   Click image for larger version

Name:	Id97636.jpg
Views:	87
Size:	71.8 KB
ID:	1015453  
Old 08-20-2008, 08:49 PM
  #20  
Lunchboxer
Thread Starter
 
Lunchboxer's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2006
Location: Longmeadow, MA
Posts: 56,176
Likes: 0
Received 3 Likes on 3 Posts
Default RE: Tamiya TA-03F Resource Thread!


Looks like I will need to get some ballbearings.. very odd sizes for the TA-03F!

1150 x 8
1260 x 4
1510 x 4
730 x 2
850 x 2

Talk about odd sizes!!
Old 08-20-2008, 09:21 PM
  #21  
The Hedgehog
 
The Hedgehog's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2006
Location: , CT
Posts: 9,999
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Default RE: Tamiya TA-03F Resource Thread!

Make sure to get ceramic bearings
Old 08-20-2008, 09:56 PM
  #22  
Lunchboxer
Thread Starter
 
Lunchboxer's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2006
Location: Longmeadow, MA
Posts: 56,176
Likes: 0
Received 3 Likes on 3 Posts
Default RE: Tamiya TA-03F Resource Thread!

Basic metal shield bearings for me...... [X(]
Old 08-22-2008, 10:06 PM
  #23  
adrictan
Senior Member
 
Join Date: May 2008
Location: SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE
Posts: 100
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Default RE: Tamiya TA-03F Resource Thread!

Someone is selling his TA03F in my country. Current offer is at $220 Singapore dollars. What price maximum should I go?
Old 08-23-2008, 01:47 AM
  #24  
Lunchboxer
Thread Starter
 
Lunchboxer's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2006
Location: Longmeadow, MA
Posts: 56,176
Likes: 0
Received 3 Likes on 3 Posts
Default RE: Tamiya TA-03F Resource Thread!

Is it new in box?! Or built?

$220 Singapore dollars is about $155 USD right now. That's not a bad price. It might go higher. Of course, for this kind of stuff, it all depends on whether there's the right buyers or not.

For the casual buyers, it makes no sense to pay more for this older chassis than, say, a TA-05. But to the collectors, this kit might worth more!

Keep us posted!!
Old 08-23-2008, 02:12 AM
  #25  
adrictan
Senior Member
 
Join Date: May 2008
Location: SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE
Posts: 100
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Default RE: Tamiya TA-03F Resource Thread!

I've read that most ppl who has this are saying to keep to the stock set-up and it'll drift great. Right?

Thread Tools
Search this Thread

Contact Us - Archive - Advertising - Cookie Policy - Privacy Statement - Terms of Service -

Copyright © 2024 MH Sub I, LLC dba Internet Brands. All rights reserved. Use of this site indicates your consent to the Terms of Use.