Since 1946, Tamiya has been much more than just a brand: it’s a true institution in the world of model making. It all began in Japan, when Yoshio Tamiya transformed a simple sawmill into a workshop for wooden models. Very quickly, the precision of the brand with the two stars won people over. Following a plastic revolution in the 1960s, Tamiya launched its first radio-controlled vehicles in the late 1970s, marking the beginning of a golden age with iconic models such as the Grasshopper, the Hornet, and the famous Clod Buster.
Today, whether you’re drawn to a legendary reissue or a modern chassis, building a Tamiya kit remains a rewarding experience. But to get the most out of it, you need to be well-equipped. In this article, we’ll cover the key points from our video guides to help you every step of the way—frombuying accessories to tightening the very last screw.
Essential equipment to complete your kit
Most Tamiya kits come “bare” or with a motor (often the classic Mabuchi 540). To get your race car running, you’ll need several electronic components:
- The ESC (ESC): This is the “brain” that manages the power sent to the motor. Be sure to check if your kit includes one (often the TBLE-02S or TBLE-04S). If not, we offer a wide range of ESCs suitable for Brushed motors.
- The steering servo: For recreational use, a servo with a torque of 6 to 9 kg is ideal. For competition or Tamiya challenges, opt for a faster, higher-performance model.
- Battery and charger: Historically, Tamiya chassis used round NiMH batteries. If you switch to LiPo (which offers better performance), be sure to choose a “round stick” format so it fits into the original slot without modification.
- The Radio Control System: It includesthe transmitter (the controller) and the receiver to be installed in the car.
Tip RC Team: To make getting started easier, check out our complete packages (transmitter, servos, battery, charger) specially designed for Tamiya kits.
The Ideal Toolkit: The Secret to a Clean Build
Assembling a Tamiya kit doesn’t require engineering skills, but it does require the right tools to avoid damaging the mechanical parts.
- The JIS (Japanese Industrial Standard) screwdriver: It’s the #1 tool! Tamiya screws look like Phillips cross-head screws, but their drive is different. Using a standard screwdriver risks stripping the screw head. Investing in a Tamiya JIS screwdriver is essential.
- Wire cutters and a scalpel: To cleanly detach parts from plastic sprues and remove small burrs (deburring).
- Assembly mat and tray: To protect your table and prevent small screws from rolling onto the floor.
- Lexan Paint (PS Series): The body parts Tamiya are often made of clear polycarbonate. They are painted from the inside using Lexan spray paint.
3. The Tamiya Method: Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
The Tamiya instructions are renowned as the best in the world. Here’s how to use them properly:
The order of the bags
. Never open all the bags at once! The instructions are organized alphabetically. Start with Bag A. Don’t move on to Bag B until the margin of the instructions tells you to. At each step, the necessary parts and screws are drawn to a 1:1 scale in the left-hand column: place your screw on the drawing to check its length if in doubt.
Screwing into plastic
This is the most common mistake made by beginners: over-tightening. When screwing into a plastic part, stop as soon as the screw head makes contact with the part. Overtightening can damage the plastic threads.
The “Click” Trick for Reassembly
If you need to disassemble a part and then screw it back in without creating new threads (which weakens the plastic), insert the screw into the hole and gently turn it counterclockwise. When you feel a slight “click,” the screw has returned to its original path. You can then tighten it normally.
Lubrication and Assembly Direction
Pay close attention to the pictogram indicating lubrication (grease is often included in the kit). Similarly, carefully check the orientation of the parts (left/right, front/rear) and the number of identical parts needed for symmetrical components such as differentials or shock absorbers.
Conclusion
Building your own car is the best way to understand how it works and to be able to repair it easily later on. Take your time, follow the instructions, and enjoy every step of the build.
Discover the entire world of the two-star brand in our store: RC Team, your Tamiya specialist in France. If you have any questions about a Compatibility? Our detailed product descriptions and our team are here to help!
