Tamiya 70113 4WD Chassis Kit Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the assembly, operation, and maintenance of the Tamiya 70113 4WD Chassis Kit. This kit is designed to demonstrate the principles of a four-wheel drive system and basic mechanics through hands-on construction.

The 4WD Chassis features a shaft-drive system, semi-pneumatic tires for enhanced traction, and a roll bar for protection. It is an excellent educational tool for understanding gearboxes, motors, and vehicle dynamics.

2. Safety Information

WARNING: This product contains small parts and is recommended for ages 14 years and up. Adult supervision is advised for younger users.

• Keep small parts out of reach of children under 3 years to prevent choking hazards.
• Exercise caution when using tools during assembly.
• Ensure batteries are inserted with correct polarity. Do not mix old and new batteries, or different types of batteries.
• Do not short-circuit battery terminals.
• Remove batteries from the chassis when not in use for extended periods.
• Avoid operating the chassis near water or in excessively dusty environments.

3. Package Contents

Before beginning assembly, verify that all components listed below are present. Refer to the exploded view diagram for visual identification of parts.

• Pre-cut wooden chassis
• RA-130 electric motor
• Gearbox components (central gearbox, outer gearboxes, gears, hex shaft)
• Four semi-pneumatic tires and wheels
• Roll bar
• Battery case (for 2x AA/UM3 batteries, batteries not included)
• Switch (forward/reverse)
• Drive shafts and suspension rods
• Assorted screws, nuts, and small plastic parts
• Small tube of grease

Figure 1: Exploded view of the Tamiya 70113 4WD Chassis Kit, showing all major components including the wooden chassis, motor, gearboxes, wheels, and roll bar.

4. Assembly Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to assemble your Tamiya 70113 4WD Chassis Kit. A small Phillips head screwdriver is required (not included).

4.1 Chassis Preparation

• Identify the pre-cut wooden chassis. Ensure all pre-drilled holes are clear.
• Attach the plastic mounting brackets to the wooden chassis using the provided screws. These brackets will hold the gearboxes and motor.

4.2 Gearbox Assembly

• Assemble the central gearbox. Carefully place the gears inside the gearbox housing as shown in the diagrams. Apply a small amount of the provided grease to the gear teeth to ensure smooth operation.
• Assemble the front and rear outer gearboxes, installing the drive shafts and gears. Lubricate gears as before.
• Connect the central gearbox to the outer gearboxes using the hex shaft. This shaft transfers power to all four wheels.

Figure 2: Top and bottom views illustrating the gearbox assembly, drive shaft connections, and motor placement on the chassis.

4.3 Motor and Electrical Installation

• Mount the RA-130 electric motor into its designated position, ensuring it engages correctly with the central gearbox.
• Install the battery case onto the chassis.
• Connect the motor wires to the switch, and the switch to the battery case, following the wiring diagram (if provided in the physical manual). Ensure connections are secure.

4.4 Wheel and Suspension Attachment

• Attach the suspension rods to the chassis and outer gearboxes.
• Mount the four wheels onto the drive shafts. The semi-pneumatic tires should provide good grip.

Figure 3: Side view demonstrating the attachment of wheels, suspension, and the roll bar to the chassis.

4.5 Final Assembly

• Secure the roll bar to the top of the chassis. This provides protection during rollovers.
• Double-check all screw connections and ensure all parts are securely fastened and move freely where intended.

5. Operation

5.1 Battery Installation

• Open the battery compartment cover.
• Insert two (2) AA/UM3 dry cell batteries, observing the correct polarity (+/-) markings.
• Close the battery compartment cover securely.

5.2 Driving the Chassis

• Locate the forward/reverse switch on the chassis.
• Slide the switch to the 'F' position for forward movement or 'R' for reverse movement.
• To stop the chassis, slide the switch to the 'OFF' or center position.
• The Tamiya 70113 4WD Chassis is designed for negotiating rough terrain and climbing obstacles due to its 4WD system and geared motor.
• Note: This chassis kit does not include steering capabilities. Movement is limited to forward and reverse directions.

6. Maintenance

• Cleaning: After use, especially in dusty or dirty environments, gently clean the chassis and gearboxes to remove debris. Use a soft brush or cloth.
• Lubrication: Periodically check the gears for smooth operation. If necessary, apply a very small amount of model-safe grease to the gear teeth to ensure smooth operation. Avoid over-lubrication.
• Battery Care: Remove batteries if the chassis will not be used for an extended period to prevent leakage. Replace weak batteries promptly.
• Inspection: Regularly inspect all screws and connections to ensure they remain tight. Re-tighten as needed.

7. Troubleshooting

8. Specifications

• Model Number: 70113
• Product Dimensions: 2.25 x 5.63 x 9 inches
• Item Weight: 9.9 ounces
• Motor: RA-130 type
• Power Source: 2 x AA/UM3 batteries (not included)
• Drive System: 4-wheel shaft drive
• Chassis Material: Pre-cut wood
• Recommended Age: 14 years and up
• Manufacturer: Tamiya

9. Warranty and Support

Legal Disclaimer: SuperDroid Robots, Inc is not responsible for special incidental, or consequential damages resulting from any warranty or under any legal theory, including, but not limited to lost profits, downtime, goodwill, damage to, or replacement equipment or property, or any cost of recovering, reprogramming, or reproducing any data stored. ANY LIABILITY SHALL BE LIMITED TO REPLACEMENT OF DEFECTIVE PARTS.

For technical support or inquiries regarding replacement parts, please contact Tamiya customer service through their official website or authorized distributors. Please have your model number (70113) ready when contacting support.