Toys for the big boys:

Ways to build the nitro TC3

*   Chassis.  Machined entirely from extreme stiff billet aluminum and anodized blue, this is the heart of the conversion.  neatly machined recesses provide all the space needed for the engine, fuel tank and throttle servo, and the screw holes all countersunk.  The chassis also acts an effective heat sink to dissipate engine heat.

*   Suspension.  The stock composite parts can handle the power or the nitro engine and are probably what the average person will use in this conversion, but I decided to use GPM aluminum hardware to trick out the nitro TC3’s suspension.  I replaced all the molded arms, hubs and mounts with the GPM aluminum equivalents.  These arms don’t offer any real performance gain, but their increased rigidity should isolate the suspension more effectively.  The parts fit very tightly and cause the suspension to bind more than the stock composite arms.  With a little patience and a reamer, I was able to free the suspension considerably

*   Shocks.  The stock TC3 shock are used for used for damping.  Filled all four with Losi’s 60WT Certified silicone shock oil because I’m setting the car up for a smooth, flat track and don’t want any unnecessary body roll that would scrub off speed.  Replaced the shocks stock O-rings with a silicone set from GS Racing.

*   Drive train.  With the exception of the GPM spur gear adapter and the  Associated Nitro Dual Sport  spur gear/clutch bell, the TC3 conversion uses the stock drive train.  Because there isn’t a 2 speed, a large, 22 tooth clutch bell t get the tallest possible gear ratio.

*   Brake.  The conversion includes a drum-brake setup; the rear drive cup has been replaced by a hardened-steel unit.  The conversion don’t include brake pads, to increase braking action.  MIP CVDs are include in the kit and they follow the same blue theme.

*   Steering.  Replace the stock composite rack with an aluminum version from GPM.  The parts retain the stock geometry, so steering response isn’t changed.

*  Engine accessories.  The conversion suggest an associated RC10GT fuel tank, though with some custom fitting, you could install certain other tanks.  Used GS Racing fuel tubing for both fuel and pressure lines.  GS also offers high-quality exhaust couplers in variety of color.