2020 -2021 Part 1 RC

 Interesting 12 month with Covid lockdowns and time spent working from home. However, it did provide some excellent hobby time.

RC

One thing I have wanted to do for many years  was build a Tamiya RC car. Back in the 80s I looked at them longingly on the shop shelf, saw the price plus the need for the rest of the RC gear and went to the plastic kit aisle. 

The first one I picked up was a Renault R5 Turbo on a M05Ra chassis. I certainly could have picked an easier body to paint. If you are not into painting clear polycarbonate RC bodies, you paint in reverse. Dark colours first an in this case three colours.

Chassis built and electronics added.

Wheels and body fit.

In this one you can see the black has been sprayed and it is ready for the yellow.

Finished with driver done.

The second kit was the Lancia Delta Integrale on a TT02 chassis. Easier to paint as it is only one colour.

Both done

Done.

Nearly  done

Body and wheels 

Chassis done

Size comparison 

On the whole the kits were straight forward as the Tamiya instructions were clear and well labelled. My only worry was the electronics but everything worked when first turned on.

Of course with a good long driveway they are good fun for a drive plus they look good on the shelf.

The Renault is listed on the Tamiya website as being a limited edition. To keep the bodyshell in good condition I bought a Lancia Stratos shell and spare wheels. 

With both kits I also replaced the stock "pogo stick" shocks with oil filled dampers. In addition I replaced the standard plastic and brass bushings with bearings. 

Issues with the Lancia were some of the stickers some took a bit of time to line up without crinkles.