Tamiya Fun Craft Series No.259 Walking and Swimming Penguin Craft Set 70259 Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the Tamiya Fun Craft Series No.259 Walking and Swimming Penguin Craft Set 70259. This kit allows you to build an engaging model that can both walk on land and swim in water. This manual provides detailed instructions for assembly, operation, and maintenance to ensure a rewarding experience.

Figure 1: Overview of the Tamiya Walking and Swimming Penguin Craft Set.

2. Safety Information

• Adult Supervision: This product is a model kit and requires assembly. Adult supervision is recommended, especially for users under 15 years of age.
• Small Parts: The kit contains small parts that may pose a choking hazard. Keep out of reach of small children.
• Tools: Assembly requires separate tools (e.g., screwdriver, nippers). Handle tools with care to prevent injury.
• Batteries: Use only the specified battery type (1x AAA). Do not mix old and new batteries, or different types of batteries. Insert batteries with correct polarity. Remove batteries when the model is not in use for extended periods.
• Water Use: After using the model in water, always wipe it thoroughly dry and remove the battery to prevent corrosion and damage.

3. Package Contents

The Tamiya Fun Craft Series No.259 Walking and Swimming Penguin Craft Set includes all necessary parts for assembly, except for the battery and common tools.

• Penguin body parts (plastic, molded color)
• Gearbox components
• Submarine motor
• Flippers and feet mechanisms
• Rudder
• Sticker sheet (for eyes, body patterns)
• Instruction manual

Note: One AAA battery is required and must be purchased separately. Basic assembly tools such as a screwdriver and nippers are also required and not included.

4. Assembly Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to assemble your Tamiya Walking and Swimming Penguin. Refer to the diagrams for visual guidance.

1. Unpack Components: Carefully remove all parts from the packaging. Organize them to ensure all pieces are present before beginning assembly.
2. Assemble Gearbox and Motor: Follow the detailed diagrams in the included paper manual to assemble the gearbox and integrate the submarine motor. This forms the core mechanism for movement.
3. Attach Body Sections: Securely attach the plastic body sections around the assembled gearbox and motor. Ensure all screws are tightened appropriately and snap-fit parts are firmly in place.
4. Install Flippers and Feet: Connect the flippers and feet mechanisms to the gearbox output. These will translate the motor's power into walking and swimming motion.
5. Attach Rudder: Install the rudder component at the rear of the penguin. This part is crucial for steering the penguin in water and adjusting its walking direction on land.


Figure 2: Attaching and adjusting the Rudder.

6. Apply Stickers: Once the main assembly is complete, apply the provided stickers for the eyes and body patterns to give your penguin its distinctive look.
7. Insert Battery: Open the battery compartment and insert one AAA battery, ensuring correct polarity. Close the compartment securely.

Your Tamiya Walking and Swimming Penguin is now assembled and ready for operation.

5. Operating Instructions

The Tamiya Penguin is designed for both land and water operation. Understand its movement mechanisms and how to control its direction.

5.1 Movement Mechanism

The internal motor drives a crank wheel, which converts rotational motion into reciprocating motion. This motion is then transmitted to the penguin's flippers and feet, allowing it to move.

Figure 3: Penguin Movement - Reciprocating motion and head rising in water.

5.2 Land Operation

On land, the penguin walks by alternating its feet. The rudder on its abdomen can be adjusted to control its direction.

• Forward: Position the rudder straight for forward movement.
• Left Turn: Adjust the rudder to the right to make the penguin turn left.
• Right Turn: Adjust the rudder to the left to make the penguin turn right.

Figure 4: Rudder adjustment for land movement (Top View).

5.3 Water Operation

When placed in water, the penguin's head automatically rises to the surface. It swims by moving its flippers. The rudder also influences its direction in water.

Figure 5: Penguin movement in water, showing flippers and limiters.

The flippers have limiters that control their range of motion, contributing to the swimming action.

Figure 6: Adjusting the Flipper and Limiter.

6. Maintenance

• After Water Use: Always wipe the entire model thoroughly dry with a soft cloth after each use in water.
• Battery Removal: Remove the AAA battery from the compartment after use, especially if storing the model for an extended period. This prevents battery leakage and corrosion.
• Cleaning: Use a dry or slightly damp cloth to clean the exterior of the model. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
• Storage: Store the model in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

7. Troubleshooting

8. Specifications

• Model Name: Tamiya Fun Craft Series No.259 Walking and Swimming Penguin Craft Set
• Model Number: 70259
• Brand: TAMIYA
• Power Source: 1 x AAA Battery (not included)
• Material: Plastic
• Assembly Required: Yes
• Approximate Dimensions (L x W x H): 6.69" x 2.17" x 11.02" (17cm x 5.5cm x 28cm)
• Approximate Weight: 230 Grams
• Educational Objective: Learning basic mechanics, assembly, cause-and-effect, creativity, and fine motor skills development.

9. Warranty and Support

Specific warranty information for the Tamiya Fun Craft Series No.259 is not provided in this manual. For detailed warranty terms, technical support, or replacement parts, please contact Tamiya customer service directly or refer to their official website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.

You can typically find contact information on the Tamiya official website: www.tamiya.com