Tamiya TA03F

[Dangeruss]

In 1996 Tamiya launched their third generation 1/10 4wd electric touring car platform into the racing scene, aptly named the TA03. Offered in four different configurations of standard or short wheelbase and front or rear motor, the first to hit the track was the standard wheelbase front motor TA03F. Constructed from ABS plastic the new open tub chassis would provide a 3mm shorter wheelbase than the outgoing TA02 but a 7mm increase in width thanks to its four-wheel independent lower H-arm under fixed camber link suspension. Each corner was supported by oil-filled plastic bodied coilver CVA shocks with clip in spring spacers hung at both ends from low profile molded plastic shock towers. The steering system was redesigned with a new molded plastic center link between its twin bellcranks as well as longer spherical end tie rods and direct mounted servo saver. Power leads from the side loading transverse mounted battery ran forward on the TA03F to the 540 motor that was hung off the nose of the car ahead of the front axle line. While still 4wd with bevel gear differentials front and rear Tamiya dispensed with its traditional shaft drive in favor of a belt driven system with bottom loading diffs for easier servicing. Metal dogbones at each corner then passed through plastic hubs on their way to a set of 12mm hex drives. Single piece plastic wheels, rubber tires, and a clear lexan body would vary based on which of the nine different models that were available, each of which included a Mabuchi RS-540 motor and bushings in the unassembled kit: