1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the assembly, setup, operation, and maintenance of your TAMIYA 1/10 RC Hotshot II Blockhead Motors Off-Road Car Kit (Model TAM58710A). Please read this manual thoroughly before beginning assembly or operation to ensure correct usage and to maximize the performance and longevity of your model.
The Hotshot II Blockhead Motors edition is a 1/10 scale high-performance 4WD off-road racer kit, featuring a pre-cut and pre-painted polycarbonate body, matte-finish metal-plated uprights and wheels, and unique styling by Jun Watanabe's BLOCKHEAD MOTORS brand.
Figure 1: Assembled TAMIYA 1/10 RC Hotshot II Blockhead Motors Off-Road Car Kit. This image displays the completed model, showcasing its blue and yellow color scheme, off-road tires, and distinctive Blockhead Motors decals.
2. Safety Information
Always observe the following safety precautions to prevent injury or damage to the product:
- Keep small parts out of reach of children to prevent choking hazards.
- Use appropriate tools for assembly.
- Operate the RC car in open, safe areas away from people, pets, and obstacles.
- Do not operate near public roads or in crowded spaces.
- Ensure batteries are charged correctly and handled safely.
- Always turn off the RC car and transmitter when not in use.
- This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm (Proposition 65 warning).
3. Package Contents
Verify that all components are present before beginning assembly:
- Pre-cut and pre-painted polycarbonate Hotshot II body (0.7mm thickness)
- Chassis components and frame parts
- Matte-finish metal-plated uprights and wheels
- Tires
- 4-wheel double wishbone suspension components (including one front transverse and two rear CVA II oil dampers)
- 540-type brushed motor
- Electronic Speed Controller (ESC)
- Number plates, light pods, side plates, window nets, and dummy antenna
- Sticker sheet designed by Jun Watanabe's BLOCKHEAD MOTORS brand
- Assembly instruction manual
- Various screws, nuts, and small parts for assembly
Video 1: Product Overview. This video provides a brief overview of the TAMIYA Hotshot II Blockhead Motors Car Edition, showcasing the kit box, various components like the pre-painted body, wheels, chassis parts, and highlighting key features such as the matte-finish metal-plated uprights and the unique Blockhead Motors styling. It demonstrates the contents of the kit and the overall design of the RC car.
4. Assembly Instructions
Assembly of the TAMIYA Hotshot II Blockhead Motors kit requires careful attention to detail. Follow the included detailed instruction booklet step-by-step. The following is a general overview:
- Chassis Construction: Begin by assembling the main chassis frame.
- Suspension System: Install the 4-wheel double wishbone suspension, including the front transverse and rear CVA II oil dampers.
- Drivetrain Assembly: Assemble the gearbox, differentials, and install the 540-type brushed motor.
- Wheel and Tire Installation: Mount the tires onto the matte-finish metal-plated wheels and attach them to the axles.
- Electronics Installation: Install the Electronic Speed Controller (ESC), receiver, and steering servo (sold separately).
- Body Preparation: The polycarbonate body is pre-cut and pre-painted. Apply the included stickers designed by Jun Watanabe's BLOCKHEAD MOTORS brand.
- Final Details: Attach the roll cage, number plates, light pods, side plates, window nets, and dummy antenna.
Tip: Organize all screws and small parts before starting each step to avoid confusion. Refer to the scale diagrams in the printed manual to confirm correct part sizes.
5. Initial Setup
After assembly, perform the following initial setup steps:
- Battery Installation: Install a fully charged battery pack (sold separately) into the designated compartment.
- Transmitter Pairing: Pair your RC transmitter (sold separately) with the receiver according to the transmitter's instructions.
- Steering Trim: Adjust the steering trim on your transmitter so the front wheels are perfectly straight when the steering wheel is centered.
- Throttle Calibration: Calibrate the ESC with your transmitter's throttle channel. Refer to the ESC manual for specific instructions.
- Function Check: Test all functions (steering left/right, throttle forward/reverse) before operating the vehicle.
6. Operating Your RC Car
To operate your TAMIYA Hotshot II Blockhead Motors RC car:
- Turn on the transmitter first, then the RC car.
- Place the car on a flat surface.
- Gently apply throttle to move forward or backward.
- Use the steering wheel on the transmitter to control direction.
- Always maintain a clear line of sight to the vehicle.
- When finished, turn off the RC car first, then the transmitter.
- Remove the battery from the RC car for storage.
7. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends the lifespan of your RC car:
- Cleaning: After each use, especially off-road, clean dirt and debris from the chassis, suspension, and drivetrain using a soft brush or compressed air.
- Inspection: Regularly inspect all screws, nuts, and linkages for looseness. Tighten as necessary.
- Lubrication: Apply appropriate RC-specific grease or oil to moving parts as recommended in the detailed assembly manual.
- Tires: Check tires for wear and tear. Replace if significantly damaged or worn.
- Dampers: Inspect oil dampers for leaks and ensure smooth operation. Refill or replace oil as needed.
- Motor/ESC: Keep the motor and ESC free from excessive dust and moisture.
8. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Car does not respond to controls. | Low battery in car or transmitter; improper pairing; loose wiring. | Charge/replace batteries; re-pair transmitter and receiver; check all connections. |
| Steering is erratic or unresponsive. | Steering servo issue; loose steering linkages; incorrect trim settings. | Inspect servo and linkages; adjust steering trim on transmitter. |
| Motor runs but wheels do not turn. | Stripped gears; loose driveshaft; differential issue. | Inspect gears and driveshafts; repair or replace damaged components. |
| Car runs slowly or lacks power. | Low battery; motor overheating; excessive friction in drivetrain. | Charge battery; allow motor to cool; check for binding parts and lubricate. |
9. Specifications
- Model Number: 58710 (TAM58710A)
- Scale: 1/10
- Type: RC Off-Road Car Kit
- Chassis: 4WD Double Wishbone Suspension
- Motor: 540-type Brushed Motor
- Body: Pre-cut and pre-painted Polycarbonate (0.7mm thickness)
- Dimensions (Assembled): Approximately 15.35 x 9.25 x 5.91 inches (390 x 235 x 150 mm)
- Weight (Kit): Approximately 1 pound (0.45 kg)
- Manufacturer Recommended Age: 14 months and up (Note: Assembly requires adult supervision and skill)
10. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or to purchase replacement parts, please contact TAMIYA customer service directly or visit their official website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Online Resources:
