In 2014 Tamiya changed their kit ESC to the TBLE-02S model. The speed controller features a low-voltage cut-off function, but it is set to 4.9V -- much too low for LiPo batteries that most RC enthusiasts use nowadays.
However, by adding a single resistor we can modify the cut-off voltage to a LiPo-safe 6.0V or 6.3V.
Companies like LRP make rounded LiPo batteries which fit into the round cavity found in older Tamiya bathtub chassis like the TA01, TA02, TA03, CC01, DF01 or FF01. However, compared to NiMH stick packs the LiPo cases are about 5 mm longer. This means that the battery is sticking out too much and the battery holder that comes with the car no longer fits.
We designed a 3D printable holder that solves that issue. For good measure we included a case for the popular 1-8S LiPo monitor -- often those old cars run speed controllers without LiPo cut-off.
A LRP LiPo stick pack in a CC01 chassis with our new holder with included LiPo monitor.
Last year we bought second hand Tamiya M01 and M02 cars. Both cars were in excellent condition. However, on both car the plate that secures the battery was missing.
Many Tamiya kits available on sale today still come with the TEU-104BK ESC. This ESC is perfectly fine for running brushed motors, but does not contain a BEC and its low voltage cut-off is too low for LiPo batteries.
The missing BEC is easily dealt with: either use "high voltage" compatible servo and receiver, or a cheap external BEC.
Fortunately it is also easy to modify the ESC to have a LiPo compatible voltage cut-off -- assuming you are able to solder a tiny surface-mount resistor.
The LANE Boys residence currently hosts a very special scale truck for light installation: a custom built full metal Land Rover Series 2 SWB. A good opportunity to see how much energy is needed to run such a RC car.
In this blog post we look at the power consumption of the Tamiya CC01 Unimog.
The popular four-button-chargers support charging of different battery types. This article examines the different charging strategies applied for NiMH and LiPo batteries.
