Team Associated DC10 1:10 Scale RWD Electric On Road Competition Drift Car Kit
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing this Team Associated product. This assembly manual contains instructions and tips for building and maintaining your new vehicle. Please take a moment to read through the manual and familiarize yourself with the steps. We are continually changing and improving our designs; therefore, actual parts may appear slightly different than the illustrations. New parts will be noted on supplementary sheets located in the appropriate parts bags. Check each bag for these sheets before you start to build. Check www.rc10.com for the latest versions of our instruction manuals.
DC10 Kit Features
Since 1964, Team Associated has proven to be the leader in competition racing. And with its roots in on-road racing, it makes sense that our Area 51 engineers would develop the ultimate RC drift car, the DC10. In RC drifting, vehicle balance is key. With the many suspension and chassis tuning options of the DC10, drivers can setup their car with precision. From camber, caster, and kingpin inclination (KPI) to motor and battery position, the Team Associated DC10 1:10 Scale RWD Competition Drift Kit has it all!
- Adjustable wheel hexes allow the track width to accommodate a wide variety of body and wheel combinations.
- A convenient quick-release battery box gets you back into the door-to-door tandem action.
- With camber, caster, toe-in, KPI, and more, there are many suspension tuning options.
- The motor position can be mounted high, and battery moved back for more rear weight bias.
- Our race-proven threaded aluminum oil-filled shocks make transitions smooth and reliable.
- Dual servo mounting locations on the carbon fiber upper deck for the perfect weight balance.
- +6mm transmission height adjustment insert allows for higher roll center and larger spur gear capabilities.
- Maximum steering throw provides superior control through drifting turns.
Additional Items Required for Completion
Your new DC10 Kit comes unassembled and requires the following items for completion (refer to AssociatedElectrics.com for suggestions):
- RC 2-channel surface frequency radio system
- AA-size batteries for transmitter
- Electronic Speed Control ("ESC")
- Steering servo
- RC electric motor
- Pinion gear, size determined by type/turn or kV of motor
- Battery charger (a peak detection charger, or LiPo compatible charger)
- 2-cell LiPo battery pack
- 1:10 Drift Body
- Polycarbonate specific spray paint
- Cyanoacrylate glue (“CA”) (#1697)
- Thread locking compound (#1596)
- Tires and Inserts, Fronts and Rears
Other Helpful Items
- Silicone Shock Fluid (Refer to AssociatedElectrics.com for complete listings)
- FT Body Scissors (#1737)
- FT Body Reamer (#1499)
- FT Hex/Nut Wrenches (#1519)
- FT Universal Tire Balancer (#1498)
- FT Dual Turnbuckle Wrench (#1114)
- Shock Pliers (#1681)
- Needle Nose Pliers
- FT Ballcup Wrench (#1579)
- Calipers or a Precision Ruler
- Soldering Iron
- Green Slime shock lube (#1105)
- Wire Cutters
- Hobby Knife
Hardware - 1:1 Scale View
This section details the various hardware components included in the kit.
Component | Description |
---|---|
Button Head (bhcs) | 2x4mm (31510), 2x6mm (4672), 2.5x4mm (4673), 2.5x10mm (31522), 3x6mm (31531), 3x8mm (31532), 3x10mm (25211), 3x12mm (89202), 3x30mm (91478) |
Flat Head (fhcs) | 3x8mm (25201), 3x10mm (25202), 3x16mm (25204), 3x20mm (89210) |
Cap Head (shcs) | 3x45mm (89279) |
LP Socket Head (lp shcs) | 3x6mm (41089), 3x10mm (41090), 3x22mm (41095) |
Set Screws | 3x8mm (4670), 4x5mm (25226) |
Ball Bearings | 5x8x2.5mm (8680), 5x10x4mm (91560), 10x15x4mm (91563) |
Ballstuds | HD 4mm (91451), Ti HD 4mm (91750), HD 6mm (91047), Ti HD 6mm (91751), HD 8mm (91048), Ti HD 8mm (91752) |
Shims and Washers | 5.5x0.5mm (31381), 5.5x1.0mm (31382), 5.5x2.0mm (31383), 3x8mm Washer (89218) |
Nuts (lock/plain) | M3 Nut (91477), M3 Alum. Locknut, Blue (31550), M3 Locknut, Black (25215), M4 Locknuts: Serrated Steel LP (91150), Serrated Steel (Silver) (91826), FT Aluminum (Blue) (31551), Serrated Aluminum (Black) (91738) |
Assembly Steps
Bag 1 - Step 1: Left Side Front Lower Arm Assembly
Assemble the left side of the front lower arm. Attach part 72204 (Front Lower Arm - Left) to the shock mount ballstuds (72232) using a 3x45mm SHCS (89279) and a 4x5mm set screw (25226). The diagram shows the components laid out for assembly. Build left and right sides.
Bag 1 - Step 2: Chassis and Blocks
Attach the A/B Block (72205) and C Block (72205) to the DC10 Chassis (72200) made of carbon fiber. Use 3x10mm FHCS (25202) and a 3x6x6.5mm Aluminum Spacer (72236). A note indicates the option to use standard 2mm washers or 2mm clips for inner hinge pins and arm adjustments.
Bag 1 - Step 3: Front Suspension Assembly
Assemble the front suspension components. Attach the Hinge Pin Pivot Ball (72230) to the A/B Block (72205) using 2mm Arm Spacers (72204) and Hinge Pins (72229). An Arm Mount Spacer (72212) is also used. The factory recommended setting for wheelbase is Front Arms: Middle (using 2mm spacers front and rear). Use 3x10mm FHCS (25202) for attachment.
Bag 1 - Step 4: Rear Suspension Assembly
Assemble the rear suspension. Attach the Hinge Pin Pivot Ball (72230) to the chassis using 2mm Arm Spacers (72204) and Shock Mount Ballstuds (72232). The factory recommended setting for wheelbase is Rear Arms: 2/3 Forward (4mm spacers towards back and 2mm spacers towards front). Build left and right sides.
Bag 1 - Step 5: Arm Mount Inserts and Rear Toe
Install the DC10 Arm Mount Inserts (72206) into the A/B Block (72205). An Arm Mount Spacer (72212) is also used. The factory rear toe setting is 1.0 degree with the arrow inward. Arm Mount Inserts are described as negative to the inside of the vehicle and positive to the outside. The diagram shows various toe angle options (0.5° to 3.0°).
Bag 1 - Step 6: Body Posts and Bumpers
Attach the DC10 Body Posts (72205 A) and DC10 Bumpers (72205 A and B) to the chassis. Use 3x10mm FHCS (25202) for the bumpers. The diagram indicates there are two front body post mounting options. The front shock tower (72203) is also shown, to be attached with 2.5x4mm BHCS (4673) and locknuts (25612). A note specifies that the blue dot indicates the upper hinge pin location.
Bag 1 and 2 - Step 7: Front Upper Arms and Caster Setting
Assemble the DC10 Front Upper Arms (72204) with DC10 Hinge Pins (72229). Attach these to the DC10 Bulkhead (72208) using DC10 Arm Mount Inserts (72206) and DC10 Arm Spacers (72204). Use M3x10mm BHCS (25211) and M3x10mm FHCS (25202). A warning advises leaving the #25211 BHCS slightly loose to allow free movement of the upper arms. The diagram illustrates caster settings, with the factory recommended setting being 12 degrees caster (6mm clips towards front and 1mm clip in back).
Bag 2 - Step 1: Rear Bumper and Steering Posts
Attach the DC10 Rear Bumper (72205) to the chassis using 3x10mm FHCS (25202). Install the Steering Posts (72208) and Steering Post Mounts (72208) along with the Top Plate Bulkhead Posts (72207). A note advises leaving the #72207 posts loose until the Top Plate is installed.
Bag 2 - Step 2: Steering Arms and Ball Studs
Assemble the steering arms. Connect Steering Arms (77208 A, B, C) using HD Metric Ball Studs (91048 for 8mm, 91047 for 6mm) and 2x6mm BHCS (4672). The Steering Plate (72209) is also part of this step, along with M3 Locknuts (25215) and 3x10mm FHCS (25202).
Bag 2 - Step 3: Steering Assembly
Continue assembling the steering mechanism. Attach the Steering Plate Collar (72209) to the steering plate using M3x10mm BHCS (25211). Install bearings (8680) into the steering components. The diagram shows the complete steering assembly.
Bag 2 - Step 4: Steering Spacers
Install Steering Spacers (72208 A and B) into the steering assembly.
Bag 2 - Step 5: Servo Mount and Horn
Mount the servo (not included) using the Servo Mount (72208). Attach the Servo Horn (72208) and Servo Horn Nut (72208). Use M3x10mm BHCS (25211) and HD Metric Ball Stud (91047). A note mentions the servo horn nut can be placed high or low. The low motor mount option (72201 Top Deck) is shown, with a note that the high motor option starts on page 20 and requires a different top plate. Use 3x10mm FHCS (25202) for chassis attachment.
Bag 1 and 2 - Step 6: Front Shock Tower and Locknuts
Attach the Front Shock Tower (72203) to the chassis using 2.5x4mm BHCS (4673) and M3 Flanged Locknuts (25612). Shock Mount Ballstuds (72232) and DC10 Arm Mount Inserts (72206) are also installed. A note highlights that the blue dot designates the upper hinge pin location. The diagram illustrates front upper arm roll center adjustment for stability and reactivity.
Bag 2 - Step 8: Top Plate Installation
Install the Top Plate using M3x10mm BHCS (25211) and M3x10mm FHCS (25202). A warning indicates to tighten the #72207 Top Plate Bulkhead Posts after the Top Plate is installed.
Bag 3 and 9 - Step 1: Differential Components
Assemble the differential components. This includes Diff Shims (91780), Diff Gears (91783), Diff O-Rings (91782), Diff Outdrives (91785), Diff Pins (91785), Sun Gears (91780), and Diff Covers (91783).
Bag 3 and 9 - Step 2: Differential Assembly and Tips
Assemble the differential further, including Diff Internal Gears (91780) and a Diff Gasket (91782). Use 2.5x10mm BHCS (31522) and Bearings (91563). Racers Tips are provided: Locked Diff is recommended for low grip surfaces and smoother driving, while Gear Diff with light grease is for higher grip surfaces, and 1000cst (80wt) fluid is for lower grip surfaces.
Bag 4 - Step 1: Gearbox Components
Assemble the gearbox. Install Idler Gears (91717) and Bearings (91560) into the DC10 Gearbox (72213). Use 5x10x4mm Bearings (91560) and 3x12mm BHCS (89202). The Top Shaft (72216) and Idler Shaft (91132) are also shown.
Bag 4 - Step 2: Gearbox Assembly
Continue gearbox assembly. Install DC10 Gearbox Spacers (72213), DC10 Waterfall (72213), and the DC10 Motor Mount (72214). Use 3x12mm BHCS (89202) and 3x30mm BHCS (91560). The diagram also shows the optional High Motor mount option starting on page 20.
Bag 4 - Step 3: Spur Gear Assembly
Assemble the spur gear system. Attach the DC10 Spur Gear Hub (72240) and Octalock Spur Gear (81T) (92296) using 3x6mm BHCS (31531) and M4 Locknuts (91738).
Bag 4 - Step 4: Rear Shock Tower and Ballstuds
Attach the DC10 Shock Tower, Rear (72203) using 3x8mm BHCS (31532) and Threaded Pivot Balls (72238). Body Posts (72205 B) are also installed with 3x10mm LP FHCS (41090). Use 3x8mm Set Screws (4670) and 3x10mm FHCS (25202). Shock Mount Ballstuds (72232) are also part of this step.
Bag 4 - Step 5: Rear ESC Mount
Install the Rear ESC Mount (72213) and Diff Cover (72213) using 3x12mm BHCS (89202). The Waterfall Center Battery Tab (72231) is attached with 3x10mm BHCS (25211).
Bag 5 - Step 1: Battery Tray Components
Begin assembling the battery tray. Install the Waterfall Center Battery Tab (72231) and Battery Mount Rail (72231) using 3x10mm BHCS (25211).
Bag 5 - Step 2: Battery Holder Arms
Assemble the battery holder. Attach Battery Holder Arms (72231 A/B) and Battery Tab Spacers (72231) using M3 Locknuts (25215) and 3x16mm FHCS (25204). A note advises to observe battery holder arm positions during installation.
Bag 5 - Step 3: Battery Tray Assembly
Continue assembling the battery tray. Install Battery Holder Tabs (72231) and Battery Tab Spacers (72231) onto the Battery Holder Arms (72231 A/B). Use M3 Locknuts (25215) and 3x16mm FHCS (25204). The Battery Mount Rail (72231) is also attached. Use 3x10mm BHCS (25211) and 3x10mm FHCS (25202) for chassis attachment. A note advises to observe battery holder arm positions during installation.
Bag 5 - Step 4: Battery Holder Stops and End Plate
Install the Battery Holder Stops (72231) and Battery Holder O-Rings (72231). Attach the Battery Holder End Plate (72231) using M3 Locknuts (25215) and 3x20mm FHCS (89210). Body Posts (72205 Pivot) and Body Clips (21173) are also installed using 3x16mm FHCS (25204).
Bag 6 - Step 1: Front Hub Assembly
Assemble the front hubs. Attach Hub Links (72211) to the DC10 Front Hubs (72210) using HD Metric Ball Studs (91451 for 4mm, 91047 for 6mm) and 3x8mm BHCS (31532). The DC10 Axle (72218) and Bearings (91560) are also installed. Build left and right sides.
Bag 6 - Step 2: Front Wheel Hex and Brake Disks
Assemble the front wheel hex components. Install Wheel Hex Brake Rotors (72210) and Wheel Hex Brake Disks (72210) onto the Wheel Hex Adapters (72210). Use 2x6mm BHCS (4672) for attachment. Build left and right sides.
Bag 6 - Step 3: Rear Hub and CVA Assembly
Assemble the rear hubs and CVA components. Attach Hub Links (72211) to the DC10 Rear Hubs (72210) using Ballstud Washers (31383), HD Metric Ball Studs (91047), and 3x10mm BHCS (25211). The Lower Hinge Pin Mount (72217) is installed. The CVA Coupler (91436), CVA Bone (72220), CVA Pin (91438), and CVA Axle (72219) are assembled. Use 3x8mm BHCS (31532). Build left and right sides.
Bag 6 - Step 4: Rear Wheel Hex and Brake Disks
Assemble the rear wheel hex components. Install Wheel Hex Brake Rotors (72210) and Wheel Hex Brake Disks (72210) onto the Wheel Hex Adapters (72210). Use 2x6mm BHCS (4672) for attachment. Bearings (91563 and 91560) are also installed. Build left and right sides.
Bag 6 - Step 5: CVA Bone and Outdrive
Install the Outer Hinge Pin (72229). A note indicates to rotate the rear hub and insert the CVA Bone into the Gear Diff Outdrive. A 3x3mm Set Screw (25225) is used, noted as not included.
Bag 7 - Step 1: Turnbuckle Assembly
Assemble turnbuckles. Connect DC10 Ball Cups (72221) to FT Turnbuckles (1401, 3x33mm) using [Black Grease #6588]. The diagram shows a 13mm length. Build left and right sides.
Bag 7 - Step 2: Turnbuckle Assembly (Curved and Straight)
Assemble turnbuckles. Connect DC10 Ball Cups (72221, Curved and Straight) to FT Turnbuckles (1401, 3x33mm) using [Black Grease #6588]. The diagram shows lengths of 10.5mm and 13mm. Build left and right sides.
Bag 7 - Step 3: Turnbuckle Assembly
Assemble turnbuckles. Connect DC10 Ball Cups (72221) to FT Turnbuckles (1401, 3x33mm) using [Black Grease #6588]. The diagram shows a 12mm length. Build left and right sides.
Bag 7 - Step 4: Turnbuckle Assembly
Assemble turnbuckles. Connect DC10 Ball Cups (72221) to FT Turnbuckles (1407, 3x58mm) using [Black Grease #6588]. The diagram shows a 36mm length, with a note that it's 18mm if the servo is flipped. Build left and right sides.
Bag 8 - Step 1: Shock Assembly (Part 1)
Begin shock assembly. Install the Piston (72235) onto the Shock Shaft (72223). Use a Washer (72223) and 2x4mm BHCS (31510). The Shock Body (72226), Shock Hat Bushing (72225), FT Low Friction X-Ring (91493), Shock Bottom Cap (72227), and Shock Rod End (72225) are also shown. A Racers Tip suggests coating O-rings with [FT Green Slime #1105] for better sealing and reduced swelling. Green slime is noted as not included in the kit. [Thread Lock #1596] is also indicated.
Bag 8 - Step 2: Shock Assembly (Part 2)
Continue shock assembly. Insert the Shock Bladder (72224) into the Shock Cap (72225), then attach the Shock Cap Retainer (72227). Compress the shock shaft fully, allow fluid to bleed from the cap, then tighten the cap. For more rebound, do not compress the shaft as far before tightening. Install the Shock Collar O-Ring (72227) and Shock Collar (72227). Use [Shock Fluid #5420 10wt]. Build x4.
Bag 8 - Step 3: Shock Assembly (Part 3)
Complete shock assembly. Install the Shock Spring (72228) and Shock Spring Cup (72222). The diagram shows a shock length of 67mm. Racers Tips provide recommended shock spring choices based on motor setup (Low Motor vs. High Motor). Build x4.
Bag 8 - Step 4: Shock Installation
Install the assembled shocks onto the chassis. Build left and right sides.
Misc - Step 1: Motor and Gear Mesh
This step covers motor installation and gear mesh setup. The motor is not included. The diagram shows the motor, pinion, and spur gear. Proper gear mesh is crucial for performance and longevity. A tight or loose mesh can reduce power and damage gear teeth. The recommended gear mesh is to have the spur gear rock slightly without moving the pinion. Use 3x10mm LP SHCS (41090) for motor mounting. Motor Gearing recommendations for drifting are provided, based on motor wind (17.5T, 13.5T, 10.5T), suggesting specific spur and pinion gear combinations for different track conditions and driving styles. Taller gearing increases RPM and wheel spin, while lower gearing provides a wider RPM window and cooler motor temps.
Misc - Step 2: Electronics and Battery Installation
Install the battery (not included) by rotating the battery levers to lock it in place. The diagram shows the placement of the receiver (not included), ESC (not included), and gyro (not included). Servo Tape (6727) is used for mounting.
Misc - Step 3: Wheel and Tire Installation
Install drift wheels and tires (not included). The diagram shows the front and rear wheel assemblies. Use M4 Locknuts (91738) for attachment. Build left and right sides.
Optional High Motor Mount - Step 1: Motor Mount and Spur Gear
Install the DC10 Motor Mount (72214) and DC10 Spur Gear Hub (72240) with the Octalock Spur Gear (92296). Use 3x6mm BHCS (31531) and M4 Locknuts (91738). Attach using 3x10mm FHCS (25202) and 3x8mm FHCS (25201). The diagram shows the components for the high motor mount setup.
Optional High Motor Mount - Step 2: Gearbox Brace Mount
Attach the Gearbox Brace Mount (72213) to the DC10 Top Deck (high motor), Carbon (72202). Use 3x30mm BHCS (91478). A note clarifies there are two gearbox brace mounts: one unmarked and one +6mm version; use the unmarked one.
Optional High Motor Mount - Step 3: Battery Holder Assembly
Assemble the battery holder for the high motor mount. Install Battery Holder Tabs (72231), Battery Tab Spacers (72231), and Battery Holder Arms (72231 A/B) using M3 Locknuts (25215) and 3x16mm FHCS (25204). A note advises to observe battery holder arm positions during installation. Build x2.
Optional High Motor Mount - Step 4: Battery Holder Components
Continue assembling the battery holder. Install Battery Holder Stops (72231) and Battery Holder O-Rings (72231). Attach the Battery Holder End Plate (72231) using M3 Locknuts (25215) and 3x20mm FHCS (89210). Use 3x10mm FHCS (25202) for chassis attachment.
Optional High Motor Mount - Step 5: Chassis Assembly
Attach the front and rear suspension assemblies to the chassis using 3x10mm BHCS (25211) and 3x10mm FHCS (25202).
Optional High Motor Mount - Step 6: Motor Installation
Install the motor (not included). Attach the pinion gear and set screw (not included) using 3x10mm LP SHCS (41090).
Optional Spool Build - Step 1: Spool Components
Assemble the optional spool. This involves Diff Shims (91780), Diff Gears (91783), Diff O-Rings (91782), and Diff Outdrives (91785).
Optional Spool Build - Step 2: Spool Assembly and Tips
Complete the spool assembly with a Diff Gasket (91782) and Diff Locker (72213). Use 2.5x10mm BHCS (31522) and Bearings (91563). Racers Tips for Locked Diff (low grip) and Gear Diff (higher grip) are provided.
Tuning Tips - Painting, Beginners
Painting: Your Kit requires a clear polycarbonate body. Prep the body by washing the INSIDE thoroughly with warm water and mild detergent. Dry with a clean, soft cloth. Use supplied window masks. Apply masking tape to the inside for designs. Spray paint (rattle can or airbrush) on the inside, preferably dark colors first, then lighter colors. Use only paint recommended for polycarbonate plastics. After drying (24 hours), cut trim lines. Drill holes for antenna if needed. Use hook and loop tape to secure the body.
Tips for Beginners: Before making setup changes, ensure you can drive without crashing. Focus on consistent laps. Make only ONE adjustment at a time and test it. If a change improves lap times, note it on the setup sheet. If it slows you down, revert. Fill out the setup sheet thoroughly. Periodically check all moving suspension parts for cleanliness and free movement.
Setup Sheets
For more setups, visit AssociatedElectrics.com.
Contact Information
Associated Electrics, Inc.
21062 Bake Parkway.
Lake Forest, CA 92630 USA
Customer Service:
Tel: 949.544.7500
Fax: 949.544.7501
Website: www.AssociatedElectrics.com
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