Manuals+

Team Associated TC8 Steel-Spec Kit Assembly Manual

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. Team Associated continually changes and improves its 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. Visit www.rc10.com for the latest versions of our instruction manuals.

TC8 Steel-Spec Kit Features

Additional Items Required for Completion

Your new TC8 Kit comes unassembled and requires the following items for completion (refer to AssociatedElectrics.com for suggestions):

Other Helpful Items

Contact Information

Associated Electrics, Inc.
21062 Bake Parkway. Lake Forest, CA 92630

Customer Service Tel: 949.544.7500 Fax: 949.544.7501

www.AssociatedElectrics.com | www.instagram.com/teamassociatedrc/ | www.facebook.com/TeamAssociated/

Hardware - 1:1 Scale View Reference

This section provides a 1:1 scale reference for identifying and ordering hardware. It includes diagrams and part numbers for various fasteners and components. Line up your hardware with the correct drawing to find the exact size. Each part in the foldout has a number assigned to it for ordering replacement parts.

Fastener Categories:

Other Components:

Assembly Notes and Symbols

The following symbols are used throughout the manual:

Note: There is a 1:1 hardware foldout page in the front of the manual. To check the size of a part, line up your hardware with the correct drawing until you find the exact size. Each part in the foldout has a number assigned to it for ordering replacement parts.

Bag 1: Lower Suspension Arms & Bulkhead

Step 1

This step involves preparing the chassis and attaching components. The diagram shows the TC8 Steel Chassis (32000) and TC8 Carbon Fiber Chassis (32002) alongside the TC8 Bulkhead (32003). Components like Alum. Pivot Balls (32037), FT Roll-Center Spacer Set (32093), Bulkhead Washers (31385, 31386), and FHCS screws (25201, 31541) are shown for attachment to the chassis and bulkhead.

Step 2

Assembly of the front lower suspension arms. The diagram shows FT Carbon Lower Suspension Arms (32060) and TC8 Lower Suspension Arms (32059). It details the installation of Set Screws (4670) as droop screws, with a measurement of 2.5mm for the front shock position and 3mm for the arm ball insert. The correct alignment of the arm ball insert is emphasized, noting to remove flashing and press in with pliers.

Step 3

Assembly of the rear lower suspension arms. Similar to the front, this step uses FT Carbon Lower Suspension Arms (32060) and TC8 Lower Suspension Arms (32059). It includes installing Set Screws (4670) as droop screws, with a measurement of 3.5mm for the rear shock position and 3mm for the arm ball insert. Correct alignment of the arm ball insert is also noted.

Step 4

Preparation of the front and rear shock mounts. The diagram shows the TC8 Bulkhead (32003) and the Front Shock Mount (32005). The instruction indicates building these components left and right.

Step 5

Preparation of the rear shock mounts. This step shows the TC8 Bulkhead (32003) and the Rear Shock Mount (32006). The instruction indicates building these components left and right.

Step 6

This step details the attachment of shock mounts to the bulkhead. It shows the use of Dowel Pins (31872) and Set Screws (25222) with thread lock [#1596]. The diagram illustrates bottoming out the set screw, leaving approximately 7mm for the front and 8mm for the rear. It also shows the installation of HD Ballstuds (32042) and FT HD Ti. Ballstuds (32096) with FHCS screws (31540).

Bag 2: Driveline

Step 1

Installation of bearings into the spur gear pulley hub. The diagram shows the TC8 Spur Gear Pulley Hub (32010) and bearings (31734, 8680). It notes that bearings may be tight and require press fitting, and advises oiling the bearings.

Step 2

Assembly of the motor mount and spur gear pulley. This step shows the TC8 Motor Mount (32007) and TC8 Spur Gear Pulley (20T) (32069). It includes installing bearings (8680) and using BHCS screws (31531). A shim (31396) is used for proper fitment with the bearing shaft, and a Pinion Gear Shim (92319) is also shown.

Step 3

This step involves the spur gear pulley and chassis stiffness. It shows the use of FHCS screws (31540) and a Shim (31381). The diagram indicates a kit setting with no screw or shim, and an optional setting with a screw and shim for increased chassis stiffness.

Step 4

Preparation of the differential case and flange. The diagram shows the TC8 Diff Case (38T) (32068) and TC8 Diff Flange (32068). It instructs to align the tab and add a small drop of CA glue to secure the part to the diff case.

Step 5

Assembly of the gear differential components. This step shows the Gear Diff Sun Gear HTC (92560), Gear Diff washer (92560), TC8 Gear Diff Outdrive (32023), B74 FT LTC Diff Gears (92307), Diff Gear Cross Pins (92138), Planet Gear HTC (92560), Gear Diff O-Ring (92133), and Planet Gear Diff Shims (92560). It also shows the use of FT Green Slime [#1105].

Step 6

Final assembly of the gear differential. This step shows the Diff Gasket (92133) and the use of FHCS screws (31472). It instructs to fill the differential to the top of the cross pins with 5k diff fluid (kit setting) and to use a small amount of black grease [#1596] between the diff gasket and gear diff cover for a good seal.

Step 17

Installation of the differential height inserts and bearing cams. This step shows Diff Height Insert, High (32063) and Diff Bearing Cam (32063). It also shows bearings (91563) and Diff Bearing Shims (92139). It notes to always use the same cam position on both sides and to shim for the best fit, ensuring free rotation with the top deck/bulkhead flex.

Step 28

Assembly of the spool. This step shows the TC8 Spool, Flange (32069) and TC8 Spool Outdrives (32024). It instructs to align the tab and add a small drop of CA glue to secure the part to the diff case. It also shows the Diff Height Insert and Diff Bearing Cam, noting that rotating the diff cam adjusts belt tension.

Step 39

This step appears to be a duplicate or related to step 17, showing the installation of Diff Height Inserts (32063), Diff Bearing Cams (32063), bearings (91563), and Diff Bearing Shims (92139). It reiterates the note about using the same cam position on both sides and shimming for free rotation.

Step 10

Installation of the drive belts. The diagram shows the TC8 Belt, 351T (32078) for both front and rear differentials. It instructs to install the rear belt and differential, and then the front belt and spool.

Step 11

Assembly of the top deck and motor mount. This step shows the TC8 Carbon Fiber Flex Top Deck (2.5mm) (32008) and TC8 Carbon Fiber Stiff Top Deck (2.5mm) (32009), as well as FT Carbon Fiber One-Piece Top Deck (2.5mm) (32085) and FT G10 Top Deck (2mm) (32086). It also shows the TC8 Ballstud mount Set (32004) and TC8 Motor Mount Screws (32031), secured with BHCS screws (31531). The diagram indicates kit settings for front and rear, and shows different top deck options.

Bag 3: DCV's and Uprights

Step 1

Assembly of the front steering block ballstud mounts. This step shows the TC8 Steering Block Ballstud Mounts (32018) and FT Carbon Fiber Steering Block Mount Shims (32094). It also shows Ballstud Washers (31382, 31383) and HD Ballstuds (32042) and FT HD Ti Ballstuds (32096). The diagram indicates Axle Height +2, +1, and 0, with +1 being the kit setup. It also mentions KPI shims affecting steering feel, with more KPI shims leading to more direct steering and less KPI shims leading to less direct steering.

Step 2

Assembly of the front steering block arms. This step shows the Steering Block Arms, Front (32019) and FT Steering Block Arm Set, Front, 1mm (32020). It uses BHCS screws (31532).

Step 3

Assembly of the front DCV (Double Cardan Joint) bone and barrel. This step shows the TC8 DCV Bone (32026), TC8 DCV Barrel (32027), and TC8 Crush Tube (32043). It includes bearings (31734) and HD Ballstuds (32042) / FT HD Ti Ballstuds (32095). It notes to oil the bearings and use black grease [#1596] on the crush tube.

Step 4

Assembly of the front DCV couplers and stub axle. This step shows the TC8 DCV Couplers (32028), TC8 DCV Stub Axle (32025), and TC8 DCV Crosspin (32027). It instructs to install pins and then press on the DCV retainer sleeve to center. It also shows the Wheel Hex (91862) and Wheel Hex Pin (91436), secured with SHCS (91611).

Step 5

Assembly of the front pillow ball components. This step shows FT Ti Pillow Balls (32102), Pillow Ball (32039), Pillow Ball Cap (32064), and TC8 Pillow Ball Nut (32022). It uses Ballstud Washers (31383) and SHCS (91611). It notes the orientation of the pillow ball cap and nut and instructs to tighten the nut until the ball begins to bind, then loosen until it moves freely.

Step 6

Assembly of the rear hub components. This step shows the TC8 Steering Block Ballstud Mounts (32018), FT Carbon Fiber Steering Block Mount Shims (32094), Ballstud Washers (31382, 31383), BHCS screws (25211, 31532), HD Ballstuds (32042) / FT HD Ti Ballstuds (32096), and TC8 Steering Block Arm, Rear (32021). It shows building left and right.

Step 7

Assembly of the rear DCV bone and barrel. This step shows the TC8 DCV Stub Axle (32025), TC8 DCV Bone (32026), TC8 DCV Barrel (32027), TC8 Crush Tube (32043), and bearings (31734). It notes to oil the bearings and use black grease [#1596].

Step 8

Assembly of the rear DCV components. This step shows the TC8 DCV Crosspin (32027) and TC8 DCV Tube (32027). It instructs to install pins and press on the DCV retainer sleeve to center, ensuring the crosspin is installed through the slot in both the stub axle and DCV bone.

Step 9

Installation of the rear wheel hex. This step shows the Wheel Hex (91862) and Wheel Hex Pin (91436).

Step 10

Assembly of the rear pillow ball components. This step shows FT Ti Pillow Balls (32102), Pillow Ball (32039), Pillow Ball Cap (32064), and TC8 Pillow Ball Nut (32022). It uses Ballstud Washers (31383) and SHCS (91611). It notes the orientation of the pillow ball cap and nut and instructs to tighten the nut until the ball begins to bind, then loosen until it moves freely.

Bag 4: Upper Suspension Arms & Servo Mount

Step 1

Preparation of the front ball cups. This step shows the TC8 Ball Cup, Short (32075) and instructs to orient the notch to the left throughout the car, as it indicates the end with left-hand threads. It also shows the use of black grease [#1596] on turnbuckle threads.

Step 2

Assembly of the front upper suspension arms and turnbuckles. This step shows FT Carbon Upper Suspension Arms (32062) and Upper Suspension Arms (32061) with 4 Degree Caster Adjustment. It shows the 3x26mm Turnbuckle (32045) and FT Ti 3x26mm Turnbuckle (32048). It instructs to thread the assembly halfway into the upper arm by hand, then use a turnbuckle tool. Approximate measurements for front camber are given (8.20mm), and it notes that camber should be set with a setup station at ride height.

Step 3

Installation of ball studs into the front upper arms. This step shows the use of FT shock pliers [#1681] to install ball studs. It shows Ballstud Shims (31383) and HD Ballstuds (32042) / FT HD Ti Ballstuds (32096).

Step 4

Preparation of the rear ball cups. Similar to step 1, this shows the TC8 Ball Cup, Short (32075) and notes the left-hand thread indicator. It also shows the use of black grease [#1596] on turnbuckle threads.

Step 5

Assembly of the rear upper suspension arms and turnbuckles. This step shows FT Carbon Upper Suspension Arms (32062) and Upper Suspension Arms (32061) with 0 Degree Caster Adjustment. It shows the 3x26mm Turnbuckle (32045) and FT Ti 3x26mm Turnbuckle (32048). Approximate measurements for rear camber are given (7.00mm), and it notes that camber should be set with a setup station at ride height.

Step 6

Installation of ball studs into the rear upper arms. This step shows the use of FT shock pliers [#1681] to install ball studs. It shows Ballstud Shims (31382) and HD Ballstuds (32042) / FT HD Ti Ballstuds (32096).

Step 7

Assembly of the steering bellcrank and servo mount. This step shows the TC8 Stering Bellcrank (32029), TC8 Servo and Bellcrank Mount (32030), and TC8 Alum. Pivot Balls (32037). It uses BHCS screws (31531) and notes that bearings may be tight and require press fitting, and that a 0.1-0.2mm shim may be required to remove play.

Step 8

Installation of servo horn components and turnbuckles. This step shows HD Ballstuds (32040) / FT HD Ti Ballstuds (32097), Ballstud Shims (31383), LP SHCS (41089), TC8 Ball Cup, Long (32075), and 3x26mm Turnbuckle (32045). It notes that the servo is not included and advises using black grease [#1596] on turnbuckle threads. It also shows the Servo Horn Ring (92247).

Step 9

Installation of the servo horn. This step shows the Servo Horn (92247) and FT Aluminum Clamping Servo Horn (1363). It provides an approximate measurement of 9.00mm and emphasizes making sure screws are tight for consistent servo alignment, using FHCS screws (31540).

Step 10

Assembly of the steering link. This step shows the TC8 Ball Cup, Short (32075), 3x46mm Turnbuckle (32047), and 3x46mm FT Ti Turnbuckle (32050). It provides a measurement of 28.50mm for the steering link and notes that toe should be set with a setup station at ride height. It also shows the use of black grease [#1596] and notes the left-hand thread indicator.

Step 11

Assembly of the toe link. This step shows the TC8 Ball Cup, Short (32075), 3x34mm Turnbuckle (32046), and 3x34mm FT Ti Turnbuckle (32049). It provides a measurement of 19.00mm for the toe link and notes that toe should be set with a setup station at ride height. It also shows the use of black grease [#1596] and notes the left-hand thread indicator.

Bag 5: Anti-Roll Bars

Step 1

Assembly of the front anti-roll bar components. This step shows the TC8 Anti-Roll Bar Link (32075), Anti-Roll Bar (1.2mm) (32036), and bearings (91558). It uses SHCS (41098) and Pivot Ball (32035).

Step 2

Installation of the front anti-roll bar ball joints. This step shows the Anti-Roll Bar Ball Joint (32035) and notes the use of thread lock [#1596].

Step 3

Assembly of the rear anti-roll bar components. This step shows the Anti-Roll Bar (1.3mm) (32036) and bearings (91558). It uses Pivot Ball (32035) and Anti-Roll Bar Link (32075).

Step 4

Installation of the rear anti-roll bar collars and ball joints. This step shows the Anti-Roll Bar Collar (32035) and Pivot Ball (32035). It uses Set Screws (25225) and notes the use of thread lock [#1596].

Bag 6: Shocks Build

Step 1

Preparation of the shock bodies. This step shows the TC8 Fox Kashima Coated Shock Body (32013), X-Ring (91493), Shock Hat Bushing (32071), and Shock Cap Bottom (32015). It advises coating the X-Rings with green slime [#1105] to help seal and reduce swelling. It also notes the orientation of the shock cap bottom.

Step 2

Filling the shock bodies with fluid. This step shows the TC8 Shock Bladder (32074) and TC8 Shock Shaft Ball End (32076). It specifies 32.5wt shock fluid (kit setting) and outlines the filling steps: fully extend the piston rod, fill the shock body slightly overfilling, gently cycle the rod to fill internal spaces, allow fluid to settle or use a shock pump, and add fluid if needed. It also shows the TC8 Shock Piston (32071).

Step 3

Assembly of the shock caps and shafts. This step shows the TC8 Shock Cap (32076), TC8 Shock Cap Top (32014), and TC8 Shock Shaft (32017). It uses BHCS (31510) and TC8 Shock Collar O-Ring (32080). It specifies a stroke of 9mm and notes to lightly rub shock fluid on the O-Ring before installation. The shock bleeding steps are detailed: place piston halfway, place bladder on fluid, press bladder down until fluid stops bleeding, attach shock cap ball end, and screw down top shock cap. It also mentions checking for 0-25% rebound.

Step 4

Installation of shock springs. This step shows the TC8 LP Shock Spring, Gray (32052) (15.7 LB/IN, kit front) and TC8 LP Shock Spring, Blue (32053) (16.5 LB/IN, kit rear). It provides approximate measurements for collar height (1.5mm front and rear) and notes that ride height should be set when fully built.

Step 5

Installation of the built shocks onto the vehicle. This step shows the use of Pivot Balls (32037) and Ballstud Shims (31383). It instructs to install all four shocks.

Bag 7: Bumper and Body Mounts

Step 1

Assembly of the bumper brace and bumper. This step shows the TC8 Bumper Brace (32066), TC8 Bumper (32032), and TC8 Bumper Mount (32066). It uses BHCS (89202) and Front Body Post, Short (32066). It also shows FT Carbon Fiber Bumper Brace (32087) and BHCS (31532).

Step 2

This step shows the attachment of the bumper brace using BHCS (31532) and FHCS (25201).

Step 3

Installation of the rear body mount. This step shows the TC8 Rear Body Mount (32082) and Adjustable Body Mounts (32103). It uses BHCS (31532) and Body Clips (6332). It notes that shims can be added under the rear body mount to adjust rear body height.

Step 4

Adjusting the body mount height. This step provides guidance on adjusting the body mount using the adjustable body mount holes (3mm adjustment per hole) and body post adjusters for fine-tuning body position.

Bag 8: Electronics

Step 1

Installation of battery standoffs. This step shows the TC8 Short Battery Standoffs (32033) and M3 Locknuts (25215). It notes that TC8 long battery standoffs are available for tall batteries.

Step 2

Installation of the battery holder. This step shows the FT Carbon Fiber Battery Holder set (32101), TC8 Battery Holder Thumb Screw (32067), and Battery Holder O-Ring (92463). It uses FHCS screws (25203) and BHCS screws (31532). Optional FT chassis weights are mentioned (e.g., FT Steel Front and Rear Battery Weight Set, 42g/60g).

Step 3

Installation of the fan mount. This step shows the TC8 Fan Mount (32067) and BHCS screws (31532, 25187). It notes that the fan mount works with 30mm fans and that the fan is not included.

Step 4

Spur gear options. This step shows the Spur Gear 92T, 64P Stock (32072) and Spur Gear 114T, 64P Mod (32070). It mentions a 1.9 internal ratio for the gear chart and that the motor is not included.

Step 5

Installation of the receiver mount and chassis weights. This step shows the TC8 Receiver Mount (32067), FT Steel Receiver Mount Weight (15g) (32092), Spur Gear O-Ring (32011), and Spur Gear Screw (32012). It uses FHCS screws (31540) and BHCS screws (31531). It also shows FT Steel Chassis Weight (10g) (32088) and notes the recommended kit position. It mentions that the receiver and ESC are not included, and that servo tape (6727) is used.

Step 6

Body stop screw adjustment. This step shows BHCS screws (89203) and notes that the body stop screw should be adjusted based on body choice and height.

Step 7

Optional belt tensioner installation. This step shows the TC8 Belt Tensioner (32067) and notes it is included in the kit and recommended for Mod classes.

Step 8

Battery installation. This step shows bearings (91475), BHCS screws (31532, 31531), and Ballstud Washer (31382). It notes that the battery is not included.

Step 9

Build and install wheels/tires. This step shows M4 Low Profile Serrated Steel Wheel Nuts (91150) and FT Nuts, M4 Low Profile Wheel Nuts, black (92254).

Optional FT Chassis Weights

This section details optional FT chassis weights for tuning weight distribution and chassis flex. It lists:

It notes that the FT Carbon Fiber Battery Holder Set (32101) is required to use the FT battery weight sets.

Tuning Tips

Painting

Your Kit requires a clear polycarbonate body. Prep the body by washing the INSIDE thoroughly with warm water and liquid detergent (avoiding scents or hand lotion ingredients). Dry with a clean, soft, lint-free cloth. Use window masks for windows. Apply masking tape for designs. Spray paint (rattle can or airbrush) on the inside of the body, preferably dark colors first, then lighter colors. Use ONLY paint recommended for polycarbonate plastics. After paint dries (approx. 24 hours), cut the body along trim lines.

Tips for Beginners

Before making setup changes, ensure you can complete laps without crashing. Focus on consistent laps. Make only ONE adjustment at a time and test it. If a change improves lap times, record it on the setup sheet (make copies first). If it slows you down, revert and try another change. Keep suspension parts clean and moving freely. Periodically check all moving suspension parts.

Ride Height

Ride height is the distance from the chassis to the ground, adjusted using shock collars. A good starting point is 5.0mm for high-grip surfaces (carpet, asphalt) and 5.5mm for lower grip. Measure on a flat surface with all components installed, pushing down and letting the suspension settle. For smooth, high-grip tracks, aim for lower ride height (4.6mm-5.2mm). For bumpy or low-grip tracks, use a higher ride height (5.4mm-6.0mm).

Camber

Camber is the angle of the tire when viewed from the front or back. Adjust via upper arm turnbuckles. More negative camber (shorten turnbuckles) increases grip but can make the car less forgiving. Less negative camber (lengthen turnbuckles) provides a more progressive slide. This should be checked on a setup station. Typically ranges from -0.5° to -2.5°. Recommended starting points: -2° rear, -1.5° front. Generally, rear camber is more negative than the front. Increasing negative camber at either end increases traction.

Caster

Caster is the angle of the hub relative to vertical from the side. Adjusting caster involves replacing upper arms. The kit offers 0°, 2°, or 4° adjustments. Increasing front caster provides smoother, more stable steering feel and enhances mid-corner/on-power grip. Reducing front caster delivers sharper initial turn-in but may diminish steering response. The kit front setting is 4° for consistent handling.

Wheelbase

Wheelbase is the distance between front and rear axles. Adjusted using rear upper arm options: "0" arm for longest wheelbase, "4" arm for shortest. Increasing wheelbase enhances stability in long corners; decreasing it improves rotation in tight turns. Kit setting is 0°. Note: Rear caster varies: 0° for large tracks, 4° for small tracks.

Rear Toe

Rear toe is the angle of rear tires relative to the car's centerline. Controlled by rear turnbuckle length. More toe-in provides greater stability, rear grip, and forward traction. Less toe-in increases rotation but reduces forward traction. Check on a setup station. Low-traction: 3°-4° toe-in. High-traction: 2°-3°.

Rear Bump Toe

Rear bump toe varies with vehicle roll/squat, creating progressive toe-in. Roll center or wheelbase adjustments influence bump toe. To maximize rear grip in low-traction, increase bump toe by reducing shim thickness. For high-traction, less bump toe improves handling. Low-traction: 0mm-2mm shims. High-traction: 3mm-5mm.

Front Toe

Front toe is the angle of front tires relative to the car's centerline. Adjusted by steering turnbuckle length. Toe-in enhances low-speed stability but diminishes steering response. Toe-out improves low-speed responsiveness and high-speed stability. Note: 0° to 1° toe-out is recommended for balanced performance. Front toe-in is rarely used.

Front Bump Toe

Front bump toe (toe-out change during roll/squat) influences cornering. Increasing shimming (reducing bump toe-out) provides sharper high-speed steering. Reducing shims increases bump toe-out, reducing aggressive steering. Low-grip: add shims for aggressiveness. High-grip: remove shims to reduce over-rotation. Typical range: 0-2mm.

Ackermann

Front steering arm options adjust Ackermann, affecting steering feel. Kit plate minimizes Ackermann for smooth steering. Optional plates increase Ackermann for sharper, more aggressive steering, suited for technical tracks.

Tuning Tips (Continued)

Track Width

Track width is the car's width. Widening rear track: less reactive, improves rotation; narrowing: opposite effect. Widening front track: decreases steering aggression/grip; narrowing: increases both. Wider track preferred for high-traction; narrower for low-traction. Adjustments via pillow ball shims or optional wheel hexes. Pillow ball settings: 1-2mm. Rear often 1mm narrower per side, but equal front/rear width improves corner speed in high-grip.

Shock Springs

Shock springs control suspension stiffness. Stiffer springs: enhance responsiveness, forward traction, high-speed stability (smooth tracks); quicker directional changes, sharper steering. Softer springs: slow directional changes, increase low-grip traction (bumpy tracks); may compromise high-speed stability. In high-traction, softer springs prevent traction rolling. Kit gray (front) and blue (rear) springs are versatile. Spring changes are major adjustments; shock angle changes offer finer tuning.

Shock Angle

Shock angles fine-tune suspension stiffness. More angled shock (reduced shims): softer, less responsive (high traction). More upright shock (increased shims): stiffer, more responsive (low traction).

Shock Fluid

Shock fluid viscosity tunes bump handling and weight transfer. Increase viscosity for bump absorption (rough tracks). Lower viscosity optimizes weight transfer and grip (low traction). Higher viscosity promotes smoother handling (high traction). In high-temp conditions, increased viscosity aids tire temperature management. Recommended range: 27.5wt-35wt with kit 4-hole pistons.

Anti-Roll Bar

Anti-roll bars adjust roll stiffness and weight transfer. Stiffer rear bar: reduces entry traction, improves on-power traction. Stiffer front bar: enhances entry steering, smooths mid-corner handling. Balance bar stiffness for optimal cornering. Faster transitions: stiffen bars (sacrificing grip). More grip: soften bars (slowing transitions). Note: Equal front/rear stiffness is common; a one-step stiffer front bar is often used if the front end is too aggressive.

Droop

Droop is the distance between the chassis bottom and axle center. Measured from the bottom of the hub below the pillow ball. Adjustment via set screw. Increasing rear droop (loosening screw, increasing travel) improves stability. Increasing front droop leads to more aggressive handling.

Tuning Tips (Continued)

KPI

Kingpin inclination (KPI) adjusted by shims between steering block ball stud mount and steering block. Increased KPI: more precise steering feel. Zero shims (zero KPI): least direct response. On rear, KPI adjustment primarily acts as upper arm length tuning.

Upper Arm Length

Alters responsiveness. Lengthening arms: stabilizes on low-traction (smoother grip transitions, easier to drive, may sacrifice corner speed). Shortening arms: increases responsiveness and corner speed (less stable in low traction). Adjusted via upper arm position or steering block ballstud mount shims. Note: Short arm mount position used most; fine-tuning with steering block ballstud mount. Adjusting the steering block ballstud mount also adjusts KPI.

Upper Arm Angle and Roll Center

Upper arm shim adjustments affect camber gain and roll center. Adding camber gain: increases camber during roll (low-traction grip). Removing camber gain ("flattening" arm): reduces grip (high-traction, prevents traction rolling). High roll center (HRC): increases initial grip/reactivity (potential corner speed); too high: abrupt grip loss. Low roll center (LRC): reduces reactivity, increases chassis roll (improves driveability).

Lower Arm Roll Center Shims and Axle Height

Lower arm roll center adjustments have a more pronounced effect. HRC: increases initial grip/reactivity; too high: sudden grip loss. LRC: reduces reactivity, increases chassis roll (improves driveability). Axle height adjustments provide the most significant roll center change.

Gear Differential

Thicker gear diff oil: smooths off-power/corner entry, reduces over-rotation/slides; increases on-power steering (potential oversteer). Thinner oil: enhances corner entry aggression/off-power steering, reduces on-power steering. Gear sets (HTC/LTC): HTC preferred, enhances on-power grip. LTC: more free rotation, sharper slow-speed cornering, sacrifices on-power response. High-traction: 7k-15k oil. Low-traction: 3k-7k. LTC gears simulate lower viscosity, may require thicker oil than HTC.

Tuning Tips (Continued)

Differential and Spool Height

This adjustment significantly influences drivetrain bind and handling, especially on-power and braking. Increasing height generally improves grip at that end; decreasing it reduces grip. Aim for the highest possible setting for maximum grip, unless drivability becomes challenging. In high-traction, lowering it can calm the car at the expense of grip. Equal front/rear height is common. Lowering front diff can reduce front-end aggression and traction rolling on high-grip tracks. Note: Increased height enhances grip; decreased height reduces grip.

Weight Distribution

The chassis has multiple weight placement positions. Consult the setup sheet for recommended FT weight configurations. A 50:50 distribution (central electronics) yields neutral balance. Shifting weight rearward increases steering aggressiveness; shifting forward promotes smoother handling.

Chassis Material and Flex Options

High-grip conditions favor a stiff chassis; low-grip may require flexibility. Steel chassis: maximum stiffness, optimal for medium-high grip, lowest CG, quickest response. Carbon fiber chassis: best for low-medium grip, increased traction, slower reactivity. Chassis stiffness adjusted via motor mount screws and shim: more screws increase stiffness (min. two at back of mount).

Top Deck Material and Flex Options

Chassis flex is further modified by top deck and motor mount screws. Stiffer top decks for high-traction; flexible top decks for low-traction. Top deck configuration allows localized flex tuning. Softer rear top deck maximizes rear grip, and vice-versa for front. A common practice is a stiff rear and flexible front top deck for optimal handling balance.

Belt Tension

Adjusted via diff/spool bearing cams. Tighter belts (modified classes): prevent skipping, enhance longevity. Looser belts (stock classes): improve efficiency. Aim for the loosest tension without skipping. Power delivery tuned by varying front/rear belt tension. A rear top deck belt tensioner can be added for durability (primarily for modified motors).

Notes

This section contains general notes and reminders for the builder.

Kit Setup Sheet

This section contains a pre-filled setup sheet for the TC8 Steel-Spec Kit, detailing settings for front and rear suspension, steering, electronics, drivetrain, and shocks. It includes ride height, camber, caster, toe, shock fluid, spring type, and other tuning parameters. A blank setup sheet is also provided for custom configurations.

Example Kit Setup Details:

For more setups, visit associatedelectrics.com.

Models: TC8, TC8 Steel Spec Team Kit, TC8, Steel Spec Team Kit, Spec Team Kit, Team Kit

File Info : application/pdf, 34 Pages, 22.19MB

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TC8 Steel-Spec Car Manual 7 30 2025

References

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Comprehensive assembly manual for the Team Associated TC8 Steel-Spec Kit, detailing parts, assembly steps, and tuning tips for building and maintaining the RC car.
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Comprehensive assembly manual for the Team Associated RC10 Team Car Kit, detailing parts, tools, and step-by-step instructions for building the iconic RC10 buggy.
Preview Team Associated RC10B84 Assembly Manual and Tuning Guide
Detailed assembly instructions, features, and tuning tips for the Team Associated RC10B84 radio-controlled car kit. Includes comprehensive parts lists, hardware specifications, and setup guides for optimal performance.
Preview Team Associated RC10T6.2 Team Kit Assembly Manual
Comprehensive assembly manual for the Team Associated RC10T6.2 Team Kit, providing detailed instructions, features, parts lists, and tuning tips for building and maintaining the radio-controlled vehicle.
Preview Team Associated RC28R Assembly Instructions
Comprehensive assembly manual for the Team Associated RC28R 1:12 scale 2WD electric on-road competition radio-controlled car kit. Includes detailed step-by-step building instructions, parts identification, hardware specifications, and setup guidance.
Preview Team Associated RC8B3.2 Build Series: Tips and Tricks
A comprehensive guide offering essential tips and tricks for building and maintaining the Team Associated RC8B3.2 radio-controlled car. This document covers hardware preparation, differential assembly, shock setup, gearbox installation, and radio tray configurations to enhance the build experience.
Preview Team Associated RC28 Team Kit #20165: 1:28 Scale Electric On-Road RC Car
Discover the Team Associated RC28 Team Kit (#20165), a 1:28 scale 2WD electric on-road competition RC car. Featuring precision engineering, adjustable suspension, and a low-CG chassis, it offers high performance in a compact package.
Preview Team Associated RC10GT Richard Saxton Edition Assembly Manual
Comprehensive assembly manual for the Team Associated RC10GT Richard Saxton Edition RC car kit, detailing parts, tools, and step-by-step building instructions for radio-controlled enthusiasts.