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My Cascadia build.
I started this on another forum but after finding this forum I felt like I needed to share it here too with more people. Hope you enjoy.
(04/27/14) Well I finally broke down and decided to do another Tamiya semi build. I built a Knight Hauler 7 or so years ago and loved it but due to unfortunate timing I had to sell it off. I always wanted to do another but there really wasn't a kit that grabbed my attention again. That was until I was browsing eBay on April 1st of all days and found a listing for a Tamiya Cascadia. I first thought it was a joke and immediately went to tamiyausa.com to see if it was true and as soon as the page loaded it was the first thing on the banner and it wasn't a joke. So fast forward a few weeks and much contemplation I made one big order with rcmart and then a small order from stellamodels for pretty much everything I needed for the build. I was like a kid on Christmas when the postal courier showed up with both boxes on Friday. Broke them open and check to make sure everything was there but then had to put it on the back burner until this afternoon when I started building things. Here's a few pics to start with of the contents of the boxes that arrived and a couple of the Knight Hauler I built. http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....3&d=1398641736 http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....&d=1398641767/ http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....5&d=1398641815 http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....6&d=1398642507 http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....7&d=1398642529 http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....8&d=1398642566 http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....0&d=1398642634 http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....1&d=1398642634 |
Re: My Cascadia build.
(04/27/14)
So I started the build this afternoon with the axles first since 90% of the stuff was new upgraded and only had to grab the axle shafts out of the bag in the Cascadia kit. I decided to go with the upgraded internals for the axles because they are heavy duty and also use a pin to retain the drive cup rather then the set screw. http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....2&d=1398642951 http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....3&d=1398642967 http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....4&d=1398642984 http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....5&d=1398642998 |
Re: My Cascadia build.
(04/27/14)
Next I tackled the tranny since again the majority of the parts were upgrades and wanted to see how well this new gear set worked. Also installed the Tamiya optional tractor motor to go with the heavy duty tranny. That's as far as I've gotten today but will start on setting up the radio and the MFU system and begin the assembly of the frame. http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....6&d=1398643085 http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....7&d=1398643098 http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....8&d=1398643115 http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....9&d=1398643132 |
Re: My Cascadia build.
(04/29/14)
So I started out yesterday morning with unpacking and organizing the MFU to do a bench test and setup the radio and servos for install into the chassis when I got to that point. As you can see by the pics if you have a phobia of wiring or electronics this isn't for you even though Tamiya makes it really simple it's still a lot and when I begin to install it there will be a lot of test fitting to get the wires hidden and where I want them. http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....1&d=1398776375 http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....2&d=1398776389 http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....3&d=1398776414 I do like some of the new features on the this new MFU and options. I still wish somehow Tamiya would make it possible to download and install your own sound files so you can really customize the truck. |
Re: My Cascadia build.
(04/29/14)
So once I was done "playing" with the MFU and had it all packed up it was time to get back to the build. Now comes the fun of building the frame and installing the servos. I tend to make things harder for myself by always using threaded hex hardware versus the standard self-tapping Philips hardware that Tamiya supplies, but I think the pain in the wrist is all worth it in the end. http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....1&d=1398777042 http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....2&d=1398777064 Once the chassis was done it was time to build the shocks. As much as I'm not going to use the stock shocks I figured I might as well build them and then the parts aren't laying around. The reason I bought the upgraded Tamiya oil filled shocks was for the colour. I remembered with the knight hauler they came with an ugly pink colour stock shock which just didn't look right. I was surprised with this kit they are actually a plan aluminium. But the oil filled are a nice gun metal which still looks better against the black frame. http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....3&d=1398777242 http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....4&d=1398777225 Now it was time for the front axle to be built. Rather straight forward and simple but still always fun as with any build. http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....5&d=1398777410 http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....6&d=1398777426 Finally it was time to bring the frame, tranny, front and rear axles together. I wasn't able to install both rear axles because for some reason either I wrote down the wrong part number for the screws I needed when I went and didn't my order or the counter person read it wrong or pulled the wrong part. Either way I ended up with flathead M3x20mm versus the buttonhead M3x20mm. Luckily I had 4 sitting in another screw box so I as able to get one axle under the frame. http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....7&d=1398777642 So this is the way it sits on my bench this morning. I have to run out and get the screws I need so I can continue with more of the build. Looking back to yesterday things for the most part went together pretty smooth but then again it's a Tamiya so you'd expect that. Only pita was the upgraded shocks. The lower shock mount is slightly different then the stock. You need to use 2 spacers. So while trying to put the screw through the mount you have to hold one spacer then the shock and then the other spacer. Definitely a tricky endeavour specially with some of the tight areas between the leaf spring and axle. |
Re: My Cascadia build.
Looking good so far, I'm interested to see where you go with this..
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Re: My Cascadia build.
(05/12/14)
I know it's been a while since I've updated this build. I haven't done a ton as I've just keep going between this build, the trailer project for this truck and my trailer truck so things keeping getting divided. I'm also waiting on some parts to continue with the build. I'd rather have the parts on hand as I build rather then have to disassemble half the truck to change something. But I did get my screws last week and was able to get a few more things done. Here's a couple pics. http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....1&d=1399900537 http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....2&d=1399900537 The nice thing is I did get a couple of packages this morning with some more parts so I'll update again a little later today. |
Re: My Cascadia build.
(05/12/14)
So just a quick update. Here's a pic of the items that came in today. http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....3&d=1399931302 I had to get a set of more scale tires for what you'd see up here. The stock Tamiya are fine if the truck was running down in So Cal or Arizona where they don't get snow but for everywhere else that has to deal with the bad weather these are what you'd see more of. I'll be keeping the stock tires on the front of the semi as they are closer to a normal steer tire. http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....4&d=1399931302 So trying to make this look as scale as I can I had to go with a set of these drive shafts. Not overly thrilled that the short one is silver since it was black in the pics when I ordered it but we'll see what the eBay seller does to resolve the issue. But they do look great and I love the wrench that comes with the long drive shaft for tightening down the nuts. http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....5&d=1399931302 http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....6&d=1399931302 http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....7&d=1399931302 Now to start installing them and do a little more work to the frame and wiring. |
Re: My Cascadia build.
(05/15/14)
Got a little more work done on the semi. Added the new driveshafts, installed the rear end of the frame with lights and mud flaps as well as the new rc4wd tires to see how it all looks. I'm not using the stock wheels as I have a set sitting in the US for me to pick up which will be happening in about a week plus a bunch of other stuff for the truck and the trailers. http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....3&d=1400163466 http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....4&d=1400163466 Then doing a little work to the electronics plate and setting up the MFC and planning the wiring. http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....5&d=1400163466 http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....6&d=1400163466 So this is where it sits as of today. Don't see too much more being done to it till after our long weekend up here and I get down to the US to pick up a bunch of stuff and I mean a bunch. lol. |
Re: My Cascadia build.
Nice work so far! If you going to run the brass gears why not add the metal shift dogs?
http://www.rigidrc.com/shop/1326-lar...1-14-truck.jpg http://www.rigidrc.com/shop/transmis...-14-truck.html Keep up the good work. |
Re: My Cascadia build.
I hadn't even seen those Claus. Thank you, I'll be looking into those.
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Re: My Cascadia build.
Then you will need the aluminum case.
http://www.rigidrc.com/shop/1028-lar...1-14-truck.jpg http://www.rigidrc.com/shop/transmis...-14-truck.html And PMD 4:1 reduction. http://www.gardentrucking.com/detail...d#.U3T3LV7oZhA |
Re: My Cascadia build.
It is great to see your Freightliner build. I just ordered my Freightliner from Tower and it should be here sometime next week. I will be following your build thread to pick up suggestions for mine and to see how you do things. I have a few things to learn on these new kits with the MFU.
I do have a question, is it necessary to have the metal gears in the transmission? I will be using a 60T brushed motor and not contemplating any heavy loads, just stock van trailer. Your build looks great so far, really like your tire choice. That drive shaft is really cool, where did you get it? |
Re: My Cascadia build.
Claus I wish their site worked so I could see some of the stuff they have. Don't know if I will need the aluminum case. I went with Tamiya crabon reinforced rear axle and tranny housing so that should be strong enough.
rctrucker2 you don't need the brass gears but I figured if I was making such a big order might as well give them a try. I don't plan on anything really heavy but you never know what the future might have. When I did the knight hauler it was all stock with the box trailer and stock motor and never had an issue with it and I know to this day it's still running without issue with the guy who owns it now. The drive shafts I found on eBay. Here's the links for you: http://www.ebay.com/itm/1-14-rc-Truc...item2a3cad153f http://www.ebay.com/itm/291136408718...84.m1439.l2649 On a side not got a pair of Rcmier fifth wheels in. Love the fact that the screws are hidden, makes it look a lot better. |
Re: My Cascadia build.
mavriok0;
I see your Cascadil transmission has helical cut gears. Are they quiter than the spur (straight cut) gears Tamiya uses in their other trucks? Spur gears always make a lot of noise. If helical cut gears are cut at 45 degrees they can used for a 90 degree drives. Ken |
Re: My Cascadia build.
Ken I'm not sure if they are any quieter then the stock. Won't know till have I have something to compare it with. I'd say that the quietness that might come with the helical cut might be negated by the fact they are metal and the noise that will occur from that. I'm sure it would be quieter then if they were standard cut gears in metal.
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Re: My Cascadia build.
Mavrick0;
Thank you for the information, glad to know stock setup will work fine. I overspent my budget on all the stuff I ordered already. That driveline sure looks good for a future upgrade. You are going to have a very fine truck when you finish. |
Re: My Cascadia build.
Very cool build! You are certainly going all out with this!
Yeah those metal gears are louder, still nice though. The MFC-03 is a fantastic unit, it is a million times smoother than the 01 in terms of drivability. It can be loud under throttle but it isn't as bold as the MFC-01. Looking forward to seeing where you go with this :cool: |
Re: My Cascadia build.
I will agree with you on the socket head cap screws. They are so much nicer than Phillips head screws. Here's a little tip for you. To ease the pain of threading the screws into the plastic parts, get yourself the corresponding tap to match the screws you use. For Tamiya rigs, it's mostly 3x.5mm threads. Anyway, run the tap through all the plastic parts before you assemble them. The tap will cut the threads, which means the screws will run right into the holes like butter. If you are worried about them fitting loose, don't be, but if you want to be sure they don't back out, tap about 3/4 the depth of the screws you use for each hole. That way the screw will cut it's own threads the last couple millimeters and that will keep them tight. You could cheat and use a cordless drill to speed up the tapping process too, but be careful not to go to crazy with the speed. Clean the plastic out of the tap flutes after every hole.
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Re: My Cascadia build.
Mavrick0
I have a question on the screws you are using. They appear to be some type of hex head screw. What are they? What sizes did you use and what thread are they? How do I get some? I think that the hex head looks a lot better than the Phillips that comes in the kit and would like to use them on my build. Your attention to detail on this build is outstanding. Thank you for sharing your build with us. |
Re: My Cascadia build.
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Cheers, Neil. |
Re: My Cascadia build.
I didn't even know they had so many upgrade parts for these trucks. I have been looking at the aeromax for awhile now and your detailed upgrade parts list is helping out.
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Re: My Cascadia build.
rctrucker2, they are definitely button head socket cap screws, and stainless, at that. You'll need a variety of lengths for a Tamiya truck. Best to take a look at the manual and see what lengths are necessary. If you don't have a manual for your truck, you can find one online. http://www.tamiyausa.com/items/radio-control-kits-30
I don't know about everyone else, but I order all my screws from McMaster-Carr. www.mcmaster.com |
Re: My Cascadia build.
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Re: My Cascadia build.
espeefan has you covered rctrucker2 and he is correct. All I do is just make a list out of the manual and I'm lucky enough I have a good supplier in my area I can just walk into and put in an order. I've spent about $300 on the last two orders I've done but that's including the truck and trailers I'm working on too. I wish I would've looked at McMaster first for the 2m screws but I'll be doing an order with them and getting the button head screws as well versus the cap screws I'm using now. But I will say if you go this route get a good set of drivers. I use a set from Dynamite RC and just had to recently change the tip after 2 years of use but a good set will make your life a lot easier and less likely to strip out the head of a screw.
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Re: My Cascadia build.
Well ran into an issue with McMaster-carr. They don't accept orders from international buyers unless it's a business. Anyone want to do an order for me and ship it to my US warehouse and I'll send them paypal. lol.
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Re: My Cascadia build.
Not sure if you have a FASTENAL near you but they have- can get you any size of screws you will need. I have ordered 0- 90s from them. I live in British Columbia ;)
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Re: My Cascadia build.
I've had good luck and pricing from {http://www.boltdepot.com/}. Shipping is cheaper if it's a business address since they use UPS for everything I've bought.
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Re: My Cascadia build.
lots of fastenals around i get stainless 3mm with the lock nuts from them .they are reasonable,unlike Brafasco you can buy 1 or 2 ,with Fastenal you need to buy a minimum quantity to get them orderedwhich is good because you will need the extra later :D
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Re: My Cascadia build.
Mavrick0
It turns out there is a Fastenal store not too far from me. I will get my screw count and go down and see what they have. Your $300.00 bill put a bit of a scare in me, not sure I want to add that to what I have already spent on this Freightliner build. I was looking for something in the neighborhood of $30.00. I will check it out. Also, would like to know where you ordered your Aluminum wheels? I have been looking at some from Hong Kong but not sure of the quality. I have seen that some members have ordered “Steve’s Wheels” but I cannot find a link to that. I do not care for the new Tamiya Aluminum wheel. |
Re: My Cascadia build.
Thanks for all the help guys. I stopped by Fastenal today and they are looking into the screws I want. Hopefully they can get them for me and at a decent cost.
rctrucker2 keep in mind this is for the truck, and 2 trailers and also I'm in Canada and things tend to be a lot higher then the US. Hence the fact I use a US warehouse to ship stuff to and pick it up. As for the aluminum wheels they were for sale on eBay by someone who seems to be getting rid of a lot of semi parts out of personal collection. When I did the Knight Hauler build I used GPM aluminum wheels and the quality was really good. But seems like they are hard to come by now so not sure where I'm going to get the rest of the wheels I'm going to need from. |
Re: My Cascadia build.
not sure how i missed this thread but it seems to be going pretty good!
How you liking the helical gears? I debated on them but figured unless im breaking stock ones i wont worry too much lol how you liking the cascadia build so far? just from dealing with the frame im seeing that there is a TON of holes in the frame! guess its like the newer vehicles IRL lol! For button style heads I ordered the "pro pack 700 pcs button head" from Team KNK hardware. "700 pieces of A2 stainless hardware. Kit includes: 50 each of button head 3mm x 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 20, 25 and 30mm lengths, 100 each of 3mm nylon insert locknuts and washers." I havent run out yet... and only 2 bad screws so far and one odd sized washer in the bunch lol |
Re: My Cascadia build.
nice build - I like your choice of hop-ups.
spur gears are noisier than helical gear on a like-for-like basis, but because Tamiya uses nylon gears, the orginal spur design will be quieter than the metal helical alternative. I agree with the view that stock ones are good till you break 'em, at which point you can justify the upgrade! |
Re: My Cascadia build.
Stuff
I went to Team KNK and found the “Pro Pack 700” and that looks like the way to go. Are there enough screws and locknuts of the proper size to do a complete truck (Freightliner)? Looking at the manual, it appears that all the screws that go into plastic, such as the cross members, are “tapping screws”. Are any tapping screws included in the Pro Pack 700? If not, how did you screw them into the plastic cross members? mavrick0, sorry for all my questions on your thread but do appreciated all the help and information. |
Re: My Cascadia build.
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Re: My Cascadia build.
Nothing to be sorry about rctrucker2, that's what we are all here for. As Espeefan said you don't need the self tapping. I've been replacing the Tamiya screws for years with no issues. Actually the machine threads hold better in my opinion. But as I said before get a good set of drivers or you'll be cursing. A cheap set or L-wrenchs won't hold up to what you need and will strip or strip out the head of the screw. Also as some one else mentioned you can by a M3 tap and pre-thread the plastic to save a little bit of work.
Thanks for all the help on the screws guess. M3 isn't an issue for me to get, even M2 if I want capheads. But where the issue came was getting the buttonheads but after talking to Fastenal after get a PM from silvertips about seeing them since that's where he's got all of his screws from out in BC I have mine ordered. So in about a week I should have them in my hand. Good thing the majority of the truck is M3 so it won't be so much rebuilding. lol. ricm, I totally agree with you but figured since I was making a huge order might as well add them in and try them out. As much as I haven't run the truck, just bench testing I notice that the tranny actually coasts more when you let off the throttle. Now whether it's the motor or what I think is the weight of the gears let it continue to spin. I just got home from doing my run down to the US to pick up the 30 plus packages waiting for me and I'm really excited. I'll get some pics up of what I ordered and what is coming up to be built and rebuilt. lol. |
Re: My Cascadia build.
As promised here a few pics of the items I picked up today.
http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....8&d=1400720081 http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....9&d=1400720081 http://rcforumz.com/chat/attachment....0&d=1400720081 The trailers will get my usual strip down and rebuild in my style, specially the Tamiya flatbed, the other will probably get a little TLC. I'm about 95% happy with it just needs a few little touches to finish it up. Anyone have any suggestions on the Bruder trailer in the way of wheels and tires or anything at all? |
Re: My Cascadia build.
Going to look great with the aluminum wheels and polished 1/2 fenders. Heck any after market wheels looks better than stock plastic.:rolleyes::p;)
Big John |
Re: My Cascadia build.
Thanks. I'm not totally sold on the half fenders yet. I also have a set of quarter fenders from the knight hauler on the way as well since the frame is already drilled for them. I do agree with you on the aluminum rims vs. stock but I did try dull coating the stock wheels on the knight hauler when I did it and they did look pretty good. Got rid of that way to bright chrome look.
Anyone installed the half fenders before? Just wondering how you mounted them to the brass frame mounts. I was thinking double sided tap or possibly drilling and screwing once I had them in a spot I liked them. |
Re: My Cascadia build.
the pro pack doesnt have the tapping screws. I tried to talk them into carrying a couple sizes of them for us tamiya guys and they didn't seem interested. They still work well for the suspension parts and anything else that needs bolted together. What I did for the self tapping is I bought a 1lb bag of leftovers from semi joe's. thats kept me in the self tapping supply pretty good!
reason I liked it so much was that there is upto 30mm long bolts in the pack. thats whats needed for highlift axles to get bolted through the holders and into the leaf springs lol I still have a ton of hardware left over and its great for tinkering. gonna need to get some nut sometime though. |
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