Building an RC: Tamiya Super Astute (Time Lapse)

This is a time lapse build of a custom Tamiya Super Astute (2018 re-release Limited Edition kit #47381). In this video, I record my build in time lapse mode. At the end of the video I show the complete results.
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This ended up being an enjoyable build but perhaps it was due to the aftermarket components and stainless hex screws I used. I’m not sure how I would feel if I built it with the supplied parts. The Tamiya Super Astute originally came out in 1991 and was only produced for a few short years, and although this is the limited 2018 re released edition (has some upgraded components), it still uses a lot of old plastics, and I find it hard, brittle-like, not pretty, and not as durable. But to be fair, this was a design that came out 30 years ago!
My goal was to make it a bit more competitive and aggressive mechanically and visually (but with some fun colored livery). When it was first released it was developed as an improvement to the originally Astute, and was somewhat along the competitive lines of the Associated RC10, Kyosho Ultima series, Schumacher Cougar, and Losi Jrx-2 series. But looking at some of the components, I didn’t feel it was on that level. One of these components is the toy-like looking stock dampers. Of course there are other things too such as suspension tuning since the design doesn’t really permit much of that.
In addition, I wanted it to look/drive more like a proper track car. Not the toy-like stock kit we typically see from Tamiya. After all, this was one of Tamiya’s top end 2WD kits back in the day. I felt it needed some proper respect, especially on a mechanical level. When I think about the Super Astute, the appeal is a little low because it should’ve been on the same quality/parts level as the 4WD Egress and Avante. I think the Super Astute is like their other sibling, and if it was treated as such, it probably would’ve done better.
Most of the upgrades I used are meant to be functional, stronger and better, and aesthetically better. I used a brushed motor because for me, these re-res or vintage kits feel and look better with period correct motors. I initially looked at vintage Tamiya motors, pink in particular like the 2WD Acto and Special Edition, but it’s not worth the current asking price and so I decided to paint a Super Stock RZ motor, added ceramic bearings, and add some custom decals. Logically, a BZ motor is what should be in this kit but I wanted the red anodized end bell.
I’m not entirely a purist, I didn’t do the typical “Astute” look. I wanted something fun but also means business. Aside from the mechanical components, the exterior needed a more serious track look and stance (I think of Masami’s Yokomos and RC10s back in the day). The black dish wheels, delrin white arms, and clear Associated rear wing with custom made endplates is a giveaway that this kit could be properly raced. This includes the upgraded Tamiya Hi-Cap dampers, carbon fiber parts, stainless hex screws, and better electronics. I usually don’t like decking Tamiya kits out with all Tamiya blue or TRF parts because it ends up feeling too much like a Tamiya marketing vehicle.
As for the exterior, it still has to resemble a Super Astute so keeping the livery pattern is important. I had some custom colored decals done by MCI Racing. Other decals I made using a vinyl plotter. I wanted to incorporate Tamiya’s two mascots especially Rabbi-kun (rabbit). So I imagine that this is Moko-chan’s car (you’ll see the driver name “Easy Eddie” replaced with “Moko-chan”). I redrew Rabbi-kun clinging, being blown away and had a decal made. I was also aware of the color palette where most of it has to complement each other-from the motor, ESC, cables, decals, etc. The other little detail is the gold (painted the front bumper and used gold vinyl for the motor) so it’s just not all fun and it gives an idea that this thing is valuable.
Parts Used: Re-release Tamiya Super Astute 2018 Limited Edition #47381
Electronics:
Motor: Tamiya Super Stock RZ Brushed 23T (with custom paint/decals, Boca ceramic bearings)
ESC: Futaba MC330CR 13T
Receiver: KO Propo 211FH
Servo: KO Propo RSx-one10 Type-S Low Profile
Battery: 7.2v NiMH 5000mAH Gens Ace (added deans connector and Trinity decal)
Mechanical:
DS RC Classics Delrin Suspension Arms
Tamiya Hi-Cap Dampers
Lunsford Titanium Rods
Tamiya 5mm Reinforced Adjuster
Square Strong Ball Ends White
Schumacher: Slim Rib 2.0 Front Tires, Full Spike 2.2. Rear Tires, Slim Front Hex Wheel, Rear Hex Wheels
GPM DT3010F-S Aluminum Front Wheel Hex Hubs AdapterKO Propo Carbon Fiber Horn
Stainless Hex Screws
Barracuda Machined Gear Support
Tamiya Aluminum Servo Stays
Xtra Speed Carbon Fiber Parts
Bearings: Tamiya, Avid Racing, Boca Ceramic
Exterior:
Tamiya PS-1 and PS-12 silver
AE Rear Wing (with custom end plates)
MCI Super Astute Decals
Custom decals

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thank you everyone for the kind comments and support. I wanted to add a note and correction about the white suspension arms. It's not made of delrin as I was corrected by the manufacturer (Dennis at DS RC Classics). It's a custom formulation of high performance plastic (HPP) designed to their specifications. I do like the material and it's far more superior than the stock one or any 3D print.

[@philthyco1]

Looks like delrin tho lol

[@MechanicAfterHours]

@@philthyco1 I thought so too! But Dennis said it's some custom/proprietary plastic.

[@philthyco1]

@@MechanicAfterHours Nice!

[@1980VINZ]

This beauty at her time was the most beautiful 4x2 to me............. Almost 30 years later it’s still the case. Definitely.
You perfected her with your touch and now she is a Venus goddess................ I LOVE HER 😍

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thank you, 1980’VINZ! The SA is a beautiful and more capable kit once it's modified. Thanks for watching!

[@esmuz]

Thank you again, there's beauty in everything you do man.. This includes how you film it and edit, tons of work! And yes please, we want a Tool tour!!

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Eduardo Moratinos! Appreciate it. Perhaps one day I can do tools but don't want to keep everyone's hopes up hehe. I will try.

[@3TRCGarage]

I just watched part of your TC-01 build and started watching this one. I realized the time-lapse goes really well with the music you choose. I like your work station and organized approach to kit building. Even your tools have an aesthetic “coolness” to them😀 Take care and keep building RCs 👍🏾

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks for watching! I actually wanted no music at all but sometimes the significant other drops by :) while I build to catch up, and I think it would be odd to have sound on some clips and none on the others. Stay safe!

[@PhYnYx11]

Building an RC kit is nothing new. Creating a unique, one off spectacular show stopper is. Not only can you accurately build, but your craftsmanship is second to none. What a pleasure to watch you work. Keep going! 💪🏻👏🏻👍🏻

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks again, James Bascombe! Sincerely appreciate the words and encouragement! Thank you for watching.

[@roysoeprapto]

I played RC (mostly 1/8 GP racing buggy) since 20-25 years ago, and never see anyone build the kit like you ...amazed with your detail, precision, and those beautiful tools....keep it up man ...

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Roy Suprapto! I appreciate the feedback and thank you for watching!

[@silvarc1552]

Your work is such an inspiration, I absolutely love watching your projects, I hope you can continue doing more of these videos!

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Silva RC! Thank you for the support and watching the build videos.

[@j.l.s.01]

True perfectionist. Bet that kit is put together like a Swiss watch

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Jayne Spinola! Haha! Don't know if I consider myself one :). Appreciate it and thank you for watching.

[@caseypdx503]

Wowww I think this may be the first CZcams channel to actually make RC building a work of art!

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Casey Cushing! Appreciate it and the kind words. And thank you for watching!

[@rcpete7055]

I've never seen such a clean build and workbench 🤯😀👍🇬🇧

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, RC Pete! Appreciate it and thank you for watching.

[@JeffersonHumber]

That might just be the most amazing and beautiful build I have ever seen

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Jefferson Humber! Appreciate it and thank you for watching!!!

[@madsrcbuggy]

Wow! I appreciate you build your cars so nicely and video it for us to see, it's really lovely! I especially noticed you upgraded the motor, what a difference bearings make, good to be reminded of this! And the tools, the craftsmanship, the finish.

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks again, Mschdk rc! That's cool that you noticed the motor detail! Appreciate the kind words and thank you for watching again.

[@dominikk.3643]

Calms me down to watch you videos... Super Relaxing. Thanks for this awsome Content! PLEASE keep going

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Dominik K.! Glad it's somewhat therapeutic and it's producing content for folks who enjoy the style. And thanks for watching!

[@XBobbyVegasX]

Awesome late 80's/early 90's vibe, work of art!!

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, XBobbyVegasX! And thank you for watching.

[@vigilante351]

Love watching your videos all the way thru. Excellent workbench, that has all the tools, nuts, bolts, screws that you could ever need for these builds. Unreal that you have a vinyl cutter as well, that motor turned out great! Carbon makes it stand out, as do the Delrin arms.

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, vigilante351! Appreciate the kind words and thanks you for watching. I really missed out on a number of cool RC kits due to buying tools and little things, but I think I'm fairly set for a while. Oh and I was corrected by manufacturer, it's not delrin but high performance plastics (HPP).

[@SuperDinomagic]

Best ASMR channel on youtube

[@madvente]

Such an amazing build. Appreciate the attention to detail.

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Maarten Vente! And thank you for watching!

[@richwrag3308]

Man that's beautiful, top work as always

[@MrSneakyGunz]

Always so perfect bud. Beautiful.

[@LucasGeniar]

Super clean build, really looks amazing. I like the colour scheme you went for and dig the "skate" underside sticker, nice touch to it.

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Lucas! Appreciate you watching the video and the kind words!

[@mikechalmers6]

This channel is the bees knees my guy - thank you so much ! 10/10 !

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Michael Chalmers! Sincerely appreciate the kind words! And thank you for watching.

[@brieatz]

Learning so much watching your builds! Love it.

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thank you for watching! Appreciate it and glad it’s helpful :)

[@michaelfrancis865]

Mate you are amazing!!! Attention to detail is spot on. Keep up the good work best I have seen ever. 👍

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Michael Francis! Appreciate the encouragement and kind words.

[@tosphol]

Wow...,Never seen anyone do it this way before. I’m impressed. Top quality video. That was tons of work for a video. Cheers.

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks! And thank you for watching. I appreciate it.

[@TheFlyHustla]

Amazing build and video, I can't wait for the next one!

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, TheFlyHustla! Appreciate it. Definitely, looking forward to building the next one!

[@rcalchemy766]

Outstanding!!! Your Eye & Attention to Detail is second to none Sir!!! Cheers & Happy Holidays...
🏆🏆🏆

[@manoman0]

Your choice of choons is, to say the least, brilliant and it reflects your work.

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks! I do listen to similar style music while I build. Thanks again for watching.

[@puertomusumeci1855]

This is absolute incedible. I Love your work. You Lift this car up to another Level. Now i want an SA.

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thank you, Puerto Musumeci. Appreciate the kind words and thanks for watching!

[@Meenie66]

Always loved the Astute's, you're making me really want to get a Super and build it... Not like I need one with the other 20 cars... Everything fully upgraded is the only way to go too! Love it mate.

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, BENNYBANANA666! And thank you for watching. I think if you want one you should get one right now-while there are still some places that sell it. I'm sure it will one day be forever gone. But you're 100% right, the SA is one of those kits that wants to be upgraded and has way more potential. if not for that I probably wouldn't have gotten one. Good luck!

[@adityakurniawan8332]

This channel inspired me alot. The works are phenomenal

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Aditya Kurniawan! I appreciate the comment and thank you for watching!

[@grahamaker1648]

The build is absolutely gorgeous my friend!! Enjoyed the video so much

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks again, graham aker! Appreciate it :)!

[@martinhurst7372]

A work of art, thank you for the video

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thank you, Martin!

[@Superutubeking]

Absolutely stunning workmanship I love it

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks again!

[@RCnerd74]

What a show car. Love your attention to the sticker. Nice cutting work. It's worth it to get the best finish possible. Love it😍

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, RCnerd74! That sticker was challenging 😅! And thank you for watching.

[@CraigOverend]

I still have my original Astute from 1989 Christmas. In the first month I broke the front bulkhead a number of times before my father made me a custom piece out of HDPE. I then decided to mount the battery longitudinally with velcro straps, and added second-hand metal shocks, but I always wished it had a finer-pitch gearbox. Later I made a larger steel pinion gear after I kept wearing the aluminium ones out, and to also compete with my friends Losi JRXPRO, then a year later Tamiya released the Super Astute with a finer pitch gearbox and I've had envy ever since...

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks for watching, Craig Overend! I recall the Astute being a tad fragile but I hope it kept up with the JRXPro. I'd feel the same way if the SA came out a year later after buying the Astute.

[@gdekort]

That’s a work of art.

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Gerardo de Kort! I appreciate it!

[@yanusurya5542]

Really love your work man. Great job!!

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Yanu surya! Appreciate the kind words and thank you for watching!

[@jatistrongwood]

great work! This is visually pleasing, you have great taste.

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Jati Strongwood! Appreciate it and thank you for watching.

[@MrWashadoingthere]

thank you sir! your videos help me relax when the world decides to give me a shit of a day!

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, ABS! And thank you for watching. Glad it helps with the relaxation. Take it easy!

[@Superutubeking]

You are the best RC builder on you tube 👍🏻

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks for the kind words and for watching!

[@Samkuym]

Masterpiece! Thanks for sharing

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Samkuym! And thank you for watching!

[@surendransuppiah]

Such a beauty, awesome.

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Obnivious s! And thank you for watching.

[@HensenKevin]

This is so zen to watch!

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Kevin Hensen! And thank you for watching.

[@markwesley8218]

Wow 🤩 so clean great work looks amazing 💪🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Mark Wesley! Appreciate it and thanks for watching!

[@aurelienenoult6240]

Un régal pour les yeux. Merci

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Merci, Aurélien Enoult! Et merci d'avoir regardé.

[@adrianbernardo202]

The Legendary Astute

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Adrian!

[@nickpeat]

I love your work, another work of art! 🤙🏻🔥😎

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Nick Peat! Appreciate it. And thank you for watching.

[@TheCarTakerGarage]

Love the Super Astute.And your build here is just amaaaaaazing.Eventhough i am a sucker for the way the " old " cars looked like..i love the modern look you implement into your cars.I just got myself a lovely DynaStorm to ad to my collection,which i did a video of lately.Unfortunatly it is a " re release" version from 2001 ..still an amazing buggy,and one of my favourite Tamiya 2wd buggies.Eitherway.thank you for doing these videos..they are inspirational 100 % :) Greetings from Norway ,Stefan :) I hope you are doing good by the way :)

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Stefan! I appreciate the comment and support. Just saw your Dyna Storm unboxing/video and that is a beautiful one, probably one of the best last classic/non-TRF 2WD Tamiya has put out that's worth having. I do have the a 2001 as well and have been fixing/tuning it up. By the way, I love JDM cars (saw yours) but I like the W210! Take care.

[@MusicRCBicyclesCoffee]

Beautiful!!!

[@motodude1002]

Wow that is an amazing kit

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks and thank you for watching, Jeffrey Richter!

[@driftcraze2138]

That's what you call an amazing throwback keep up the great work I'm a new subscriber by the way and you get a thumbs up. 🤙🏻🔥😎🔥👍🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks so much, DriftCraze 2! I appreciate the kind words and thank you for the sub. Take care!

[@ANKCreative]

Incredible 👏

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, ANK Creative! And thank you for watching.

[@godsun358]

Outstanding work

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Michael RC King! And thank you for watching.

[@godsun358]

@@MechanicAfterHours I will be back

[@jercsgn]

Another awesome build.

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Jer Sgn! And thank you for watching.

[@Ummmmmkay88]

Would have looked awesome if you painted the suspension springs pink or yellow. But it’s still a work of art.

[@bsimpson2288]

Sick build.

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, B Simpson! And thank you for watching.

[@prorafa2714]

Damn that car looks fresh! love it.

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Raoul de Jong! And thank you for watching.

[@Luis-Volt]

I like a lot your work.... amazing. ..I have a Super Astute 1991 versión. . A bit túned and with several upgrades. .. but i like a lot some of yours. You are right about your analisys of this model. It is not strong...but i love it. It is my first RC car, so...

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Luis Dieguez! And thank you for watching. I love it as well even it it's not perfect. Yes with some customization/upgrades it takes the car to another level. I like it for being the underdog.

[@gazr4967]

Fantastic!

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Gaz R! And thank you for watching.

[@n22pdf]

Wow your build quality is amazing 10/10 awesome channel subscribed

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Pete Franks! I appreciate the nice comment and the sub, and thanks for watching!

[@irritablearchitect]

Above and beyond, as always.

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, irritablearchitect! And thanks again for watching.

[@HoodooGuru111]

Awesome! Enjoyed your video!

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks! Appreciate it and thank you for watching

[@danwalker2110]

Good grief that’s gorgeous.

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Dan Walker! And thanks for watching.

[@Supramonk]

Please do a tour in that amazing studio and tools that you have, it looks that is super complete

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks again! I will try one day.

[@JunkieVirus]

love this channel! but its gonna cost me money! now I want to build rc cars again :P

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks! And thank you for watching. Haha! Yes, the hobby (prices) have gone up and the demand has been insane lately.

[@compsrx1]

Superb

[@alekankalogero3830]

IF TAMIYA re-released spark models were your canvas.......SUPER ASTUTE LM AND EGRESS would be your MASTERPIECES!! (in my book) I ENJOYED EVERY SECOND OF YOUR BUILT!! KEEP IT GREAT BRO! PRO MODELIST IN DA HOUSE! NICE DAY SIR! !

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks again, Alekan Kalogero! And thank you for watching :)!

[@bobfromtheblacklodge]

Awesome perfect build and video. Domo arigato!

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Starblazer! And thank you for watching! Do itashimashite

[@conradallum4323]

That is bloody nice"

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Conrad Allum! And thank you for watching.

[@thomaslax39]

This really makes me want to build up a kit similar to yours...

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks for watching. Definitely you should. Would be nice to hear from someone too how it would perform. Good luck!

[@simong7310]

Gorgeous! Adorable.. And I'm saying that owning a pristine worlds-participating b4 factory team. You have such a good taste. Know Michael Vollmer and Neo vintage rc? Reminds me of his stunning stunning work

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Simon G! Appreciate it and thanks for watching. Unfortunately, I don't know Mr. Vollmer or Neo vintage. I'm fairly new to this thing. I looked him up and he has some amazing kits and builds, and some of his cars are familiar. It's inspiring me right now. I was wondering if that style was big at some point? I like the passion that comes across!

[@carlomac]

@Mechanic After Hours - That’s the best looking Super Astute I have ever seen, phenomenal! It really achieved the goal of making it look like a proper racing car from that era. Apart from all the option parts on this the hi-caps really suit it. Can I suggest you create affiliate links to all the tools you use in the description area of your videos to Amazon - if they’re available on there - so you get a kickback.

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thank you, carlomac! Glad it looks like a proper car from that era. Appreciate the kind words and suggestion-I do have to look into it, and honestly, have to get more savvy with these things and find some time. That definitely a cool idea. Take care!

[@lr2a841]

Very very good job 👍👍👍😉🇫🇷

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Merci, LR 2A. And thank you for watching!

[@firemustang6678]

Awesome build... Mate... And I like the downforce... Looks so racing than the original's stock

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thank you and thanks for watching!

[@porta_patrols]

very nice!

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Porta Patrols! And thanks for watching.

[@zkipa]

amazing work! love the builds. would love seeing what you would do with an on-road build, or drift build. LEDs.

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, k k! And thank you for watching. I do have some on-road kits that I'll be building. I wish I can do drift cars but it will probably just be a waste on me because I don't have a proper surface or track to run them. Maybe one day ;)

[@BeavistheLizard]

Impressive.
I have two Vintage Astutes and I did have a super astute once but I don't know what happened to it!
I'm not one for selling things on.. Great workmanship and loved the theme/art you went with.
Congrats.

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thank you. I really appreciate it

[@philthyco1]

Beauty!!!

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, PhilthyCo RC! And thank you for watching.

[@DavidB-oj2nc]

Merveilleux 🥺👍

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Merci, David B. Et merci d'avoir regardé!

[@RCRetro]

This was probably the most in depth and best build video I've watched. I truly enjoyed this and the Super Astute turned out amazing. The motor looks awesome. I'll have to do that someday to make it look like the Pink Acto Power Motor if I ever build my NIB Dyna Storm.
What do you clean the outside of the body with before putting on the decals. I've noticed in the past that some of the reproduction decals that go over curved parts of the body don't stick or eventually peel up after a few days. I see that you spray them with water/mild soap but do you clean the outside of the body with anything first? Thanks & I subscribed.

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thank you and thanks for watching! Really appreciate it and the kind words. To prepare the lexan areas for decals, I just use an organic alcohol such as isopropyl alcohol. This helps lessen any oil or unwanted residue on the surface. Since there are no electronics, I just use 70% and I don't use a liberal amount. I wipe it dry right away. I use cotton balls but I make sure no cotton strands are left behind. I don't let the alcohol sit long because with some acrylic sheets it can make it brittle with long exposure (but this is lexan and I have never experienced issues).
I agree with you on the aftermarket decals. It doesn't adhere nicely especially on curved areas as the original one. Hopefully preparing the surface will help. By the way, I checked out your channel and it's impressive! Lots of great content/RC cars. Just subscribed and I'll be checking it out more.

[@ART-iu1un]

You are a good mechanic~^^

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thank you! 당신도 훌륭한 기계공입니다!

[@ART-iu1un]

@@MechanicAfterHours
You are a good friend~^^

[@YOOPDLRC]

Very nice 👍🤩👍~~~!!!!!!

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, YooPDTV! And thank you for watching.

[@SuperHelibob]

Another incredible build. Next level detailing. I love watching the videos. They’re so inspiring.
Thank you 🙏🏻
Did you print the delrin parts yourself or is someone making them? I think it would make a big difference to all the hobbyists running vintage Tamiya designs as everyday bashers. I’ve got a Bigwig that breaks every time I switch it on. I think it’s cursed....or I’m just a terrible driver. 😂

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Bob! Appreciate it and thank you for watching. No I didn't print it. It's a strong plastic material called delrin. I think it's an underrated material and wish there were more suspension arms made using this. I like it better than 3D printed because the finish looks more polished and professional. It's made by DS RC Classic and he makes parts for a few cars. I don't know if he has one for a Bigwig but check it out. I don't think you're a terrible driver, it's just some parts on Tamiyas are more fragile. Good luck!

[@MrCrapman10]

Shelf queen right there.

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks for watching, Craig Ster!

[@germanrcdriver39]

I hope this car never gets driven and gets a perfect shelf queen life. It looks too nice to drive or bash. Great work👍

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, GermanRcdriver! Tempting on both ends (keeping it as a shelf queen and running it). I typically run what I build so I can test them out. Just have to be very careful.

[@germanrcdriver39]

@@MechanicAfterHours yes that would be an option. I built a tt01 with a racing truck body for someone in my family and to set the trim and servo i drove it very carefully, going 10kmh allthough it can go 60kmh

[@MechanicAfterHours]

That sounds like the way to go! Sometimes I find it difficult to run these older and re-release kits because parts are scarce and expensive.

[@germanrcdriver39]

@@MechanicAfterHours that a thing too, im lucky that i have an old tt01 to use for spare parts for the tt01 truck. Dont worry my tt01 is broken (both diffs and shocktowers)

[@christak3884]

Very nice video. :-)

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Christa K! Appreciate it and thank you for watching!

[@viperautovalet4479]

Now that is a thing of beauty!!!!!
We’re that as good as the RC10 and the offering from Kyosho of the time??

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks! And thank you for watching. From what I know, when it originally came out in ‘91 it was meant to compete on that level because Tamiya needed a top end 2WD. So for example the battery layout is now inline instead of across (compared to the older Astute). Some of the mechanical designs are quite similar to a Schumacher and RC10. The camber can also be adjusted. Then you have the slipper clutch. The biggest difference between those other cars is the differential. The SA is geared while the others are ball type. So it’s more durable but not as efficient when it comes to transferring power. Then you have the driveshaft, I believe although the RC10 isn’t universal there’s a spring that keeps it in place. The SA is just a basic setup. The stock dampers too are just ok. A bit low grade. But once you upgrade it to a Hi-Cap or Egress dampers it’s on another level. I would say the transmission can be more durable than the RC10 but I could mistaken. The SA is one of those underdog icons but taken up a bit it can be outstanding.

[@adrianbernardo202]

A perfect Astute that can can compete in IFMAR

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Adrian! And thank you again for watching.

[@adrianbernardo202]

@@MechanicAfterHours sir I hope you get a Tamiya Vajra, & turned it what it used too, I will wait if you post it, ☺️☺️☺️

[@MrCaprinut]

Awesome build!
It's so relaxing to watch your videos.
What brand is that tapper handle and the ball end screw on tool?

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, MrCaprinut! And thank you for watching. It's a Scorpion tap driver and Team Associated ball end tool

[@rcl300018]

Unreal build! Can I ask what pliers you are using with the rubber tips?

[@chromezeta]

Beautiful build as always.
May I ask where did you get the gold front bumper?

[@talbotbid011]

Hi there. Amazing video...sent me to another place dude. Loved it. Hey, where do get the large assortment of ss hardware?

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, talbotbid011! And thanks for watching. The screws I typically order from McMaster-Carr here in the US. You'd have to choose what type and sizes you'll need. Good luck!

[@jonathanbyers28]

I have only just discovered your channel and blown away by the quality of your builds. Can’t stop watching them. Can I ask, in the majority of your builds you re-wire the motor, but instead of soldering straight to the motor you use connectors. What sort are they please?

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Jonathan! And thanks for watching. Sorry for the late response. I believe they're called spade terminals. I'm not exactly sure what specs are as I've had them for a while and don't have the packaging but I'm sure it's easy to search/look up. Good luck!

[@jonathanbyers28]

@@MechanicAfterHours Thanks for the reply. I have managed to track them down thanks to EBay. You have inspired me to tidy my wiring 😊

[@user-kw3xm6ue4e]

Good

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thank you!

[@nicknieva7079]

We need a workshop and tool box tour!

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks for watching, Nick Nieva. Not much to see in the workshop, it's just this small 5x5 space haha. But maybe one day I can show tools and stuff.

[@esmuz]

@@MechanicAfterHours I was going to ask for the same... Tools tour please, or just a list!

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Will do. Hopefully you guys can wait a little :). I think I get enough requests on it anyway so I will try at some point

[@lynx7575]

Very good video s the other. An advice, please slow the video on some parts as when you replace bearing for the RZ. Thanks

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Marco Marco lynx! Thanks for the feedback and for watching.

[@d3po455]

Awesome job! What brand of stainless screws do you use? Where do you get them?

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Daniel! And thank you for watching. They are from McMaster-Carr (US).

[@kencur]

What an amazing build , I too have a Super Astute waiting to be built with a box full of Hop Ups. I am curious about your plotter/cutter, it looks like a Cricut Maker but you have a sticker on it that says "KATANA". Is that just a nick name for your machine?

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Kenrick Currie! Yes it's just a nickname for the the machine :). Good luck with the build and thank you for watching!

[@Kevin-666]

one day the youtube algorithm will favor you
is that a custom motor??
video suggestion: rally car! maybe a xv01

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Poke! And as always thanks for the support. It's a partially custom Tamiya Super Stock RZ. I wanted the red aluminum end bell. So I added ceramic bearings on both ends, painted the can with candy pink automotive engine paint, and made my own decals for it. I almost replaced the armature with a Trinity one but decided to do it later. Thanks for the video suggestion. That's funny, I almost purchased an XV01 last year. I do have the Escort MF-01X ordered but I don't know if it's ever going to arrive. And also have a Lancer EVO IV Monte Carlo TL01 To restore.

[@handoltowa2873]

Dang! That chassis is even more beautiful than a cobra on steroids!
Do you have a video of it running?

[@MechanicAfterHours]

Thanks, Han Doltowa and thank you for watching. I haven't made a video of it running, yet. One day I will. Aside from COVID, there haven't been a lot of places to run the car lately. And unfortunately, the closest track I believe it a couple hours away.