What do you think?

[XLR8]

The new MB's probably have proper dog bones rather than those funky hex bones. I think Tamiya finally retired those hex drive axles long ago.

Anyway, I'm pretty sure the new Blackfoot and Brat versions have dog bones so it seem reasonable the MB would have them also.

That said, the stock gear diffs are said to be total crap so it's probably wise to upgrade to MIP.

EDIT: I just had a quick look at the manuals and Frog and Brat use dog bones while BF and MB use CVA's. So it appears to depend upon tire size but all of them still use that awful gear diff.
Typical Tamiya: don't correct ALL the known problems with the vehicle, let the customer do that.

[Sprocket]

If you didn’t want to spend the money on a MIP diff, there are relatively inexpensive braces that work

[XLR8]

If you didn’t want to spend the money on a MIP diff, there are relatively inexpensive braces that work

Link please?

[cdnclodbuster]

I don't mind spending the cash on it but if there is alternatives sure would look at it. But if alternatives (bracing) is used will the gears inside still give problems ?

[cdnclodbuster]

Ya just ordered the MIP ball diff, dang a month to wait for that part wow is that the same everywhere ?

[Sprocket]

https://www.tamiyaclub.com/forum/index.php?/topic/94042-monster-beetle-frog-gearbox-fix-a-new-strengthener/&

Talk to a guy that goes by Xeostar. Really nice guy. That thread will answer a lot of questions

If he does not have any made up right now, check eBay(esp UK version) as they pop up occasionally.

Hope this helps

[cdnclodbuster]

Thanks I will do that.

[cdnclodbuster]

Also just a side issue that is MB related. I noticed today while I was driving the beetle that it steers better right than left (tighter turn ) I have the steering trim set so it will drive straight. Do I need to take the servo saver off and move it a notch in the opposite direction then reset the steering trim and adjust accordingly. Sorry for probably a stupid question still kinda new to RC. Thanks

[juicedcoupe]

Make sure that the servo is properly centered, fairly close to where the you drive straight.



To complicate this, cars with offset steering linkages tend to not steer the same in both directions.

Better transmitters have adjustments that can somewhat tweak this.

[BattleTrak]

That’s what it sounds like.. Take servo saver off, turn on radio system & set the trim back in the center, reinstall saver.

[BattleTrak]

A common modification is to center mount the steering servo and use equal length tie rods.

[cdnclodbuster]

I take it that even length rods are aftermarket.

[cdnclodbuster]

Ya thanks battletank thats what I was thinking cause the steering trim is maxed out .