Wednesday , 13 November 2024

Tamiya F104X1 Build – Part 8 – Front Suspension Part 2

Tamiya F104X1 Build
Tamiya F104X1 Build

The Build – Part 8
This part will complete the front suspension build. Tamiya has included 3 sets of springs to help you tune your F104X1 to different track conditions. You can also adjust ride height but putting the shims above or below the steering upright.

Build Notes:
After building the front end, it is suggested that you apply a thick-ish oil to the front suspension to help smooth it out. I use 3000wt Team Associated Gear Diff Lube. That seems to work really well and it’s thick enough to stay in place.

Tamiya F104X1 Build Step 49
Tamiya F104X1 Build Step 49
Insert the aluminum balls into the upper suspension arms. Do this for both sides. They are non-directional so that doesn’t matter.

Tamiya F104X1 Build Step 50
Tamiya F104X1 Build Step 50
Insert the 3x35mm screws through the chassis and into the ball connector nut. If you are using the optional electronics mount system, you don’t need the front upper deck. If you do remove that, it’s optional to place spacers in it’s place. Pop the upper suspension arms onto the ball connector nut.

Tamiya F104X1 Build Step 51
Tamiya F104X1 Build Step 51
Snap an e-clip onto the kingpin and install a front spring. The F104X1 comes with 3 different sets of front springs. I use the stiffest, the golds, simply because we are using a super soft front tire and the gold spring helps control front dive. Build 2 of these.

Tamiya F104X1 Build Step 52
Tamiya F104X1 Build Step 52
The steering upright comes pre-assembled with the F104X1. You will need to install the ballend, though. Use the stock location. Do this for both sides.

Tamiya F104X1 Build Step 53
Tamiya F104X1 Build Step 53
Slide the kingpin up through the lower suspension arm, through the spacers and the steering upright. Spacers can be loaded per the manual; thick below the steering upright and the two thing above it. Do this for both sides.

Tamiya F104X1 Build Step 54
Tamiya F104X1 Build Step 54
Capture the assembly with an e-clip on top. Install the setscrew into the back of the axle. A dab of blue loctite will help keep it in place. Do this for both sides.

Tamiya F104X1 Build Step 55
Tamiya F104X1 Build Step 55
Pop the steering ballcup into place. Do this for both sides.

Part 9 – Assembling the center shock.
Back to the Tamiya F104X1 Build List

About Tony Phalen

Tony Phalen - As an avid RC enthusiast, Tony has been building, bashing and racing RC Cars for over 30 years. He has participated in every kind of surface racing events - 1/18 scale trucks, 1/10 scale TC, Rock Racers, Rally - if it had wheels, he's raced it! He's also worked on both sides of the industry fence; collaborating with many major manufacturers (as well as being a sponsored driver) to working for a high-profile industry magazine. During this time he has learned many tricks, tips and techniques and is sharing that knowledge on CompetitionX - the most informative RC website on the internet!

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