New Tamiya Mercedes Arocs 3348

[Rimrock]

Keeping in mind this is Tamiya's first try doing a tipper, the tipper body looks quite good, a 'universial' design. Bottom plate is sheet metal and the sides and front is plastic. Looking at the clearence between the rear wheels and the fenders, it seams like the suspension system is the same as the tractors -> little movement. Not quite suitable for a construction vehicle. But not too complicated to move the rear and front suspension to get more clearence, if wished.
The tipper system is kind of creative, but unnessecary complicated and expencive (300 USD?) Watching the videos, seams like it takes 40-50+ seconds to the top?? THAT is slow IMO. The 1:1 ones use about I've have found 15-20 seconds. The tipper system we make ourselves takes about 8-12 seconds, which is still slow to many of the more unpatient RC truckers

[DieselKid]

Looks pretty cool. I know everyone is always bummed to see another Euro rig, but the actuator kit is interesting, and even the dump box has some potential to look like something on this side of the pond with some modifications.....actually doesn't look too far off from what a lot of ag/grain boxes look like over here already......just add some extensions/side boards.

What catches my eye almost more than anything is the drive tires.....the tread almost looks similar to the Fulda Crossforce from Carson, but shallower, I like it!

-Alex

[jjackso5]

All, this kit is listed on the Tower Hobbies website for "pre-order" with availability in mid-March according to the limited information on the site/listing. Pricing looks affordable as well for the basic kit. Though I'd like to know what the lift kit pricing will be and what MFU this will require/use. I would tend to believe that more than one of the alternate control/sound systems could be fitted to this as well.

There wasn't any information about the "lift kit" though, but I'm sure that will follow in a few days. That kit might be useful for conversions as well.

This kit combination certainly could make conversions more obtainable for more people, possible easier builds, as the engineering is done for you perhaps, just a thought. That means more dump trucks, probably more people getting into the hobby, but that's just my thoughts.

Who's gonna order one to write the review for Tower?

Have a great day,

Jim