Thunder Tiger’s new S3 1/8-scale buggy

[StevePond]

http://www.rccaraction.com/pics/thundertiger/ttrs3.jpg

Thunder Tiger’s new full-race buggy, the TTR S3, is its most comprehensive racer to date. Among other things, it will feature:

> Front pivot-ball suspension (with swaybar)

> Traditional rear H-arm suspension setup (also with swaybar)

> Graphite upper radio tray

> Polished-aluminum front and rear shock towers

> Constant-velocity drive axles front and rear

> Dual-disc brakes

Its most unique feature is its chassis. The gunmetal-gray anodized chassis is made out of a solid piece of extruded and machined aluminum, and a “tunnel” running down the center makes it extremely rigid. There is virtually no flex; it’s very stout! Overall fit and finish of the TTR S3 are topnotch. For more information, check out “Inside Scoop” in the December issue of RC Car Action or contact Thunder Tiger/Ace Hobby Distributors at (949) 833-0088 or look them up online at thundertiger.com.

[eternaldragon]

vary nice buggy i like the engine mounting plate's like what the inferno's have should make lining up the engine vary easy to reinstall after taking it off to clean the buggy or what ever els you would take the engine off for also should be vary light with all the graphite and machined aluminum parts. i wonder what the price would be for it.

[tnxfan]

sweet. i wish i had some extra money

[atm92484_3]

Any word if TTR improved the plastics on this kit over that on their previous cars?

[AudiTT-Quattro]

Whoa! Chassis flex what? Looks competitive!

[rckid11]

There are so many 1/8 buggies!!!!!! I am glad im not in the market for one.

[Scooby_WRX]

Holy Cow!!!! That is one really sick design!!!

[maxxamillion]

There are so many 1/8 buggies!!!!!!
Ditto that. Its very confusing as to whats good and whats not so good in buggies.

[badboy2]

man now idk which one to get LST or that buggy

[InspGadgt]

Awesome looking chassis. Looks like they learned a lot on machining the MGT chassis to come up with this. Should be an incredibly ridgid chassis. Though I would like to see the drive shaft off-set to get the engine and pipe closer to the center of the chassis. It will be interesting to see how well balanced it is left to right with everything installed.

[Mr. Furious]

Does this mean that Associated will be getting into the 1/8th buggy market? Kidding, kidding......just kidding. Although it would be cool to see some Associated cars in the 1/8th buggy class.

[sugs]

Hmmm. Did any of you guys notice the front shock setup? Upper a-arms and the shocks are mounted behind the front tower. I wonder how well it works. I think I would pick this buggy over the others just because it is the most different. All the others just seem to be carbon copies of the Kyosho.

[repete]

well...Taylor james ran over the competition at the R/C Pro Series south event with the new TTR..adn Saxton got second at the west event

i will definately have this buggy..cant wait for it to come out

[rcboy201]

from what i hear it is a really nice buggy, real fast, but it has trouble exiting the corners, taylor james if a very good driver, and i think it might be kinda hard to drive for the average shmuck like me

[Cain]

I am glad that there are so many choices for people to run for 1/8 scale buggy. Nothing is more boring than an all 1 vehicle offroad class.

[TNX]

The MGT truck is made by Thunder Tiger with input from Associated. Most TTR products do not sell well in the USA, why do they not do the same thing with the 1/8 buggies? Introducing the Team Associated RC8B5 or something like that. Even though TTR and AE have a very close working relationship, people are still very cautious about TTR cars, myself included. By simply changing the branding of the car, and using AE marketing (and using AE's parts supply chain, as I find AceHobby is tought to find parts through), this buggy could be quite hot on this side of the pond. Just my thoughts.

[repete]

Steve..DO u know when yall will get a car to test for the mag?

[Rsaxton]

We have done a ton of cool things to this car, thank you car action for putting up the thread. They will have two page spread in there mag soon and then when we have kit they will have one for a full write up. Ace will handle the car and is staring to take back orders kit# 6230 you can have your dealer call 1-800-322-7121 to place an order.
I am really excited about this project because this is the future for TT products and I am excited to be a part of that. We should have around 4 new products out around the middle of next year. One of the products I think everyone will be stoked about.
If you need anything just ask.
Thanks
RS

[repete]

NIce to see u sign up here Richard...(im pretty sure u dont remember this..but i sent u an email a couple months ago asking for ur old S2 setup lol)...i already put my S3 on preorder..and i heard that ur going to the Bayou Classic race at Fastrack in Houston this month...im going there also...gunna be running Mugen X5's..but teh main reason im going is to check out ur S3..and to see how i compare with the team drivers

[hardadz]

Hate to burst a bubble but ACE Hobby Dist. does not even have the part number listed yet. I just got off the phone with them and they have no idea when this will be in the system. As to the issue of parts, most dealers tend to carry Associated, Losi and a few others because they have the name recognition and parts are available through many R/C distributors, hence making it easy to stock the parts. The Thunder Tiger products are well built and are easy to get parts for if you are willing to stock and sell the line. Evolution Hobbies in Maine has sold a lot of the Thunder Tiger products and has sold very few parts because of the strength of the parts. If you want TT then give them a call or email them. evolutionhobbies@juno.com
Just my two cents worth. One last item, think as to why AE has teamed up with TT to produce the products, maybe because they realize the quality that TT builds in?

[Rsaxton]

Cool deal I don't know who told you I would be athat race but this is the first I have heard of it, the last race I will be at is the R/C pro in FL in Nov. We will have some more photos of the car soon, thanks for the support of Thunder Tiger.

[hardadz]

Ace has stated that they should see the first S3 buggies in November. No price has been given yet. Anyone that would like to pre-order should contact their local dealer. If you have trouble, contact the guys at:
www.evolutionhobbies.com and they should be able to help you.

[Rsaxton]

Thanks to the people who have already started to preorder, it is unreal how many people have been waiting to get this car, the numbers are in the system and we are ready for any questions.
Thanks
RS

[tperkins]

Got an estimated price?

[hardadz]

For those that want the full specs and features go to www.evolutionhobbies.com and click on their store front button. No pricing is available yet but they have a pre-order in for these.

[Rsaxton]

MSRP 889.99 so it should be around $500 to $550

[rcboy201]

hey rsaxton what do u think of your fellow factory driver taylor james

[Rsaxton]

He is the man, every race he gets faster. We will have a new team next year more of the local drivers that represent themselves well.

[repete]

..what does it take to get on that team?...just curious...cause i was like the only person in Louisiana with an EB4 that raced it....the ol' s2 brought home some nice trophies

[sugs]

Nice to see so much interest on this thread. I got to see the new S3 buggy up close at RCX this year and I must say I was very impressed. I've been waiting for a while now to see some real innovation in the 8th scale buggy market and Thunder Tiger seems to have done it. What I'd really like to hear from Mr. Saxton is how he thinks the innovations have helped the S3 versus other buggies.

[Rsaxton]

repete just send me an e mail and we will look into what we can do for you. Thnaks

It is hard to put a finger on one thing, the shocks are some of the best I have used maintence is a breeze, the shock cap is the best no stretching the pistons are way cool. The shocks behind the front tower are helpful to protect the shaft. the ridgid chassis I think is better it helps you dial in your suspension better, the tank is one of the best I have used. If you compare the S3 to the S2 not even the same thing all new from the ground up.

[Stalker911]

Richard, nice to see that someone is supporting Thunder Tiger and getting more aggressive with the replying to customers! Well done!

I sent Doug and Jeff @ Ace emails abit over a year ago when there was a few tracks opening up here in the Toronto Area and the only reply I got was from Jeff telling me to email Doug. I was simply asking them about an signage for the track or if they had any interest in sponsoring a few guys up this way... I was pretty disappointed at the results...

But I have to say I do like my EB4 Limited and my EK4 :D They both have a few issues but I think they are very good cars (heck, they are the same).

I'm almost in the market for a new buggy and I thought that I had decieded on a Kyosho one, but after seeing this, you just never know.

If there is any interest in sponsoring a Canadian Racer, let me know ;)

[thenetwerx]

It's Tim from So Cal. Daren's old jet ski buddy. I haven't been out to the races in a long time. I think the last time I saw you was when I raced at the Silver State race and I stayed at your house. Reagan was still wrenching for you and you were engaged. I think you got married shortly after. How's life treating you these days? Are you still involved with Treadz?

I caught up with Daren a while back and he was working as an IT guy for a telephone company. I guess he got the shaft from Orion. I think he had another kid? Do you ever talk to him?

I am going to get back into 1/8th scale racing this fall. A lot has changed as I am now married with two kids!

The new TTR car looks interesting. Good Luck with that. I always look to see how you do in the race results...

http://www.thenetwerx.com/images/goatee.jpg

[Rsaxton]

Whats up Tim, I talk to Darren around SX season, glad to hear from you, you will have to come out and race. 1/8th is the class. keep in touch see you soon

[Alden]

I for one am definitely going to get this buggy, it looks really cool. Is it true it weighs 2500Grams because thats extremely light in comparison to something like 3200 Grams on the Kyosho K3. I own an S2 at the moment and really like it and I would really like to stick with TTR, after seeing the pics of this buggy it doesnt look like it will dissapoint. Richard, will the production car look like the one you were driving at the worlds or are there gonna be some differences. Also, what differentials does it come with?

Thanks
Alden

P.S Do you perhaps know a place where i can find a good setup sheet for the S2 pro on a hard-packed clay track? I recently started driving on a new track and I need to fine tune the setup.

[repete]

Alden..with my S2 i ran negative 1-2 degree camber on the front with 2-3 degree tow out
on the rear i ran 2-3 degree negative camber with the 3 degree rear toe block. i think i had the ackerman set on the back rear most hole...front shocks mounted in the inner most on teh tower and the outter on the arm.. for the rear i had 2nd inner most on the tower and mid on the arm. I ran Kanai shocks so my oil weights might differ..but i ran 60 front and 40 rear with the white 2 hole pistons...my diffs were 5000 front, 7000 center, and jt6 grease in the rear...that was my basic setup...worked very well for me and won many races.

[slaf]

Hi all !

For all those who doubt about TTR I can tell you this....

This spring I was looking for a Monter Truck and I finnaly bought a Savage over a MGT. I choosed Savage cause I tought that TTR (MGT) was not a good products. I have to admit that i was judging TTR by seeing DT-10, EK4 and their onroad nitro sedan (TNS4 I think). Now I sold my Savage to get a MGT :) All I have to say about my new MGT is that tough, well built, easy to maintain truck. So keep your good work TTR.

PS: It's funny to read R Saxton comments on this forum. Event if my english is not perfect (I do speak french) :)

[Rsaxton]

The buggy we ran at the worlds is the same kit you will get, i was out testing our new clutch today, nice. It is a blown up TC3 clutch easy to work on.
Sorry man I don't have a setup for S2, we will post a ton of setups for the new car when the setup sheet is done.

[hardadz]

Evolution Hobbies has the Ace flyer and price posted on their store front. They are taking orders and offering FREE SHIPPING on all that pre-order(conus only) !!! check it out at evolutionhobbies.com

[andersun16]

Does this mean that Associated will be getting into the 1/8th buggy market? Kidding, kidding......just kidding. Although it would be cool to see some Associated cars in the 1/8th buggy class.

All kidding aside, I'd love to see Associated market this thing - it seems to be much easier to get Associated parts than it is for TTR parts. Parts availability is my number one concern with getting a new kit. Come on Team Associated - you know you want to . . .

[hardadz]

When evolution Hobbies orders TT kits they always order parts to back them up. They cannot say how other TT dealers operate but they seem to be real decent about parts. Give them a try. Just visit their site and storefront and you will see how they stock parts for the SSK truck. They really do back up their customers.

[nate johnston]

Saxton- How does this buggy handle?
Does it have good travel? Like the sportwerks or kyosho? Or is it more like an ofna suspension travel?
Also if youve ever drove a sportwerks mayhem how does the S3 compare?
thanks!!!!

[Rsaxton]

I like the sportwerks nice looking car, i even lifted an idea of theres for our pillow balls. I have never driven one. I really worked hard on the suspension, we have a shock and piston like no other on the market.

As for parts there will be an awesome supply at Ace just give us a chance.
RS

[Stalker911]

Richard do you know how well stocked on parts HobbyCraft in Canada will be?

I'll be looking for a new buggy to race up here next year since we actually have a few decient tracks now...

[nate johnston]

Could I buy straight friom ACE? Does the suspension have alot of droop? thanks!

[Alden]

I live in South Africa so it isnt too easy to get things cheap at the LHS. Will the S3 ship internationally from Ace Hobbies or will I have to get it off an online site. One online site thats really nice for me to get from is www.rc-mushroom.com so I hope they get it because they have very good international shipping rates.

Sounds like the suspension is really nice, what does the pillow ball steer like? I have heard the pillow ball suspension doesnt give as good steering as C-Hub so im just wondering.

Thanks
Alden

[KyoshoKev]

damm that is nice

[nate johnston]

Saxton-
Does the buggy have alot of droop? Or is it like an ofna buggy? Is there any more pics of this buggy anywhere? I would like to see the suspension up closser. I mainly want to see the droop or the arms. thanks!!

[rccardude04]

Do you have a droop fetish? :p j/k
Nice looking buggy. If I manage to wear out my X5 I'll defiinately have to look at this one. It'd be something different that not many people will have for a while.
-Eric

[Rsaxton]

The car has a lot of drop. There will be more pics soon from the chicago show.

Please have your internet supplier contact us, we will make them a great deal on TT product.

[hassro]

Alden,

You could also buy through Kellett's Hobbies in Australia they hold and distribute Thunder Tiger products in Australia. I know the S3 is not available as yet but they are awaiting its arrival. www.kellettshobbies.com


Cheers

Rolf

[Windsorguy99]

It certainly does sound like TTR is really boosting the marketing of this buggy in comparison to their previous offerings...

one of the local racers in my area won a partial sponsorship as a prize at a large 1/8 race outside Toronto...

As you can imagine..with that type of a prize being offered for the top non-sponsored driver it generated quite a buzz among the race community in the area. Everybody seemed to be talking about this buggy..

There is a question about the release level of the kit though. Will it be released in 'Pro' form or 'basic' form initially? The last remaining racers in my area running the S2 were anxiously looking forward to the S3 when they heard rumours that it will ship with basic level gear. They were concerned specifically about the shock towers which they indicated were quite weak on their S2's and needed to be upgraded right away.

[nate johnston]

Yes I guess you could say I have a droop fetish! :) Well I think Im on the band wagon! Hey the show in chicago....is that for public or just dealers?
Ok one more question. Does the expected 500 buy you a rolling chassis or does it come ARR with a pipe and motor?

[Bart_Banaan]

I donot know if one of you guys understand france, but in the France natuonals 2004 an almost production version of this TTR S3 was entered by Jean Marc Lacheze. The french website RCMag.com has published severall close-up pics of all parts of this car.
Even when you cannot read french, the pictures are very specific!

You can find the story here: http://www.rcmag.com/reviews/categorie/tt18/thunder/s3lacheze04/s3.htm

http://www.rcmag.com/reviews/categorie/tt18/thunder/s3lacheze04/eb4s16.jpg

http://www.rcmag.com/reviews/categorie/tt18/thunder/s3lacheze04/eb4s12.jpg

[ttreb4]

There is a question about the release level of the kit though. Will it be released in 'Pro' form or 'basic' form initially? The last remaining racers in my area running the S2 were anxiously looking forward to the S3 when they heard rumours that it will ship with basic level gear. They were concerned specifically about the shock towers which they indicated were quite weak on their S2's and needed to be upgraded right away.

Actually they are s1's that we are running, and I herd the new cars were comming with 3mm shock towers, and I know the origional silver ones on my s1 bent all the time without even flipping the car. Just from a hard landing caused them to bend. Not cool. I replaced them with the ergal one and never had that problem again. I am still intersted in the car. I just hope the towers are good.

[Windsorguy99]

LOL...figured you were watchignthe thread....thought youhad done the upgrades to S2 though...just digging for info to pass along

[nate johnston]

Hey thanks for the pics!!!
Looks like this may have been one of the early models before some things were changed.
Did you see the shock towers? Looked pretty thin but the one on the bottom look real nice! Also I really hope this isnt designed with the production buggies but the reciever and reciever battery pack box doesnt look like it can be opened without taking the throttle servo horn off!!!???? No way this is the way they designed it! I wish someone would do a review on this buggy so I could read about how it drives!!

[slaf]

[QUOTE=Bart_Banaan]I donot know if one of you guys understand france, but in the France natuonals 2004 an almost production version of this TTR S3 was entered by Jean Marc Lacheze. The french website RCMag.com has published severall close-up pics of all parts of this car.
Even when you cannot read french, the pictures are very specific!

You can find the story here: http://www.rcmag.com/reviews/categorie/tt18/thunder/s3lacheze04/s3.htm

Here I go....


The most innovative for a 1/8 buggy from TT is the "ladder" chassis inspired from MTA4 (Monster GT). This kind of chassis is very stiff (rigid). All under chassis screws are contersunk.

Diffs are new, smaller with lightweight bevel gear. Tooth on gears are more angled to increase realibily for those who run the S3 in 2wd.

Fuel tank is inspired from MTA4 (MGT) that let the buggy run even on the top.

Radio deck is in carbon fiber and the steering servo is layed down. Clips are used to close radio box.

The font end is new too with a shock in the center of the A-Arm. Shocks connect inside (inverted) the shock mount to protect the shocks, pivot balls are now used like the MBX5. Steel CVDs. 3 pieces shock with 3.5mm shaft with "ball piston" I'm not sure about this translation :(

Rear end is classic, you can change wheelbase, excentric anti roll bar, hinge pins are mounted in a plastic balls that let adjust suspension geometry.


Jean Marc use RB S7 World engine with a 9863 tuned pipe, Technofuel 25% and RB 6 glow plug.

His setting:
Front diff:10000
Center diff: 30000
Rear diff:1000
Front shocks: 300wt with red springs
Rear shocks: 250wt with blue springs


Even if I speak french, it's hard for me to translate french from France cause they use words and expressions not used in Quebec. Hope this help you !

[slaf]

Look at thos options....

http://www.rcmag.com/reviews/categorie/tt18/thunder/options3/options3.htm

A base version will be avalaible end september that will be at the same level (a bit less) as the MP777 or MBX5. Optoins will be release soon...

- 8mm shock towers
- one piece center diff mount
- Aluminium servo saver (looks like MGT servo saver)
- Steel pivot balls
- Aluminium anti roll ball end
-

[Alden]

8mm shock towers are nice and thick. Saxton says the buggy we will get is the same as the one used at the worlds which I have seen in pics with the nice thick shock towers. They are milled out in places to lighten them and look really sturdy, this buggy is just brilliant. TTR has thought of everything, every little detail seems to have been thought of. The diffs look nice and strong and easy to work on too.

[repete]

november is getting closer and closer..cant wait..

[nate johnston]

could I order straight from ace hobbies or does a dealer have to order from there? man I would buy one no question if I knew parts were easy or farely easy to get!!!

[nate johnston]

ordered mine today!!!! cant wait!

[ttreb4]

I wanna see this car. When is it comming out? I cant wait any longer.

[nate johnston]

Richard! Where are you!!!! We need your help! :)
what weight oil did you run at kyosho race by the way? thanks!!!

[Rsaxton]

We will have some kits released to us this Friday, They will be shipped by air, when Friday comes I will let you know for sure. I also don't know how many kits we are getting. We have a ton of back orders so I hope they send us a lot.
The prototype towers were way to soft I made sure that the material they use for the kit is the same as everyone else 7075.
The kit is very nice and easy to build, TT support at the races we attend next year will be very nice, our team is focused on the club racer and the pro.
Sorry I had not been on here in a while I was in Taiwan making sure everything is OK. I can't wait til you guys see the clutch, it makes the most sense for a clutch shoe. We are also going to update the ACE web site and post set up sheets from around the world.
thanks
RS

[nate johnston]

Good to hear from you! What weight shock oil do you recomend since the new design of the shocks? Youll be at the kyosho race in st louis again wont you?

[MaxxGT23]

Wow, what an aweosme looking buggy. This is definitly the kit to get. Wish I had enough $$$ to order one and get a sweet motor, radio gear, servos, and tires and wheels and a body. Man, I bet it looks sweet completely assembled.

[Rsaxton]

I run 40 front AE and 30 Rear AE, but it also depends on the weather

[Alden]

Hello

Umm, Richard, have you got any ideas on when the S3's will hit the webstores? Also, i take it i can buy directly from Acehobby, what are the shipping rates like?

Thanks
Alden

[Alden]

Oh, I would also like to know a bit about the weight, how does is weigh up against other buggies you have seen/used?

[repete]

alden..the weight is a lil heavier than a mugen

[Rsaxton]

you will not be able to buy direct from Ace, there are many dealers that will have on line shops, Kendall at A Main hobbies will be on line. I will have to get you the weight

[Alden]

Ok, thanks, Amain hobbies is nice, great shipping rates so I will probaly order from them when they get.

[ux226]

[QUOTE=Bart_Banaan]
Fuel tank is inspired from MTA4 (MGT) that let the buggy run even on the top.

What does this mean? That fuel supply will not be interrupted even if the buggy lies shiny side down? How is that done?

That's a GREAT feature if it really works...

/Bjørn

[repete]

Rich...do u know when the buggies will be shipping from ACE to the dealers?

[slaf]

What does this mean? That fuel supply will not be interrupted even if the buggy lies shiny side down? How is that done?

That's a GREAT feature if it really works...

/Bjørn

It's like on the MGT, there is 2 fuel inlet in the tank. One one the top and the other on the bottom.

[Rsaxton]

I think they are shipping some kits to Ace today, I will find out and let you know when I get back from FL

[ux226]

It's like on the MGT, there is 2 fuel inlet in the tank. One one the top and the other on the bottom.
OK... Very simple of course. Does it really work? Like if running on the track alone and you flip the car over because you hit som bump wrong, then you can just walk calmly down from the stand on walk out to turn the car over (or actually just leave it there), and it won't die from running out of fuel (until the tank is empty of course)? Does it really work like that??? If so, then why on earth don't we see more tanks like that?

Regards,
Bjørn

[Alden]

I dont know why we dont see more but thats what it does. Maybe we will see more now that the S3 has it.

[slaf]

OK... Very simple of course. Does it really work? Like if running on the track alone and you flip the car over because you hit som bump wrong, then you can just walk calmly down from the stand on walk out to turn the car over (or actually just leave it there), and it won't die from running out of fuel (until the tank is empty of course)? Does it really work like that??? If so, then why on earth don't we see more tanks like that?

Regards,
Bjørn


It works like that...Engine still running even if truck is upside down until out of fuel....

[repete]

..im dieing over here waiting on my buggy...i have had this thing ordered the minute the part number was released...and i know its coming soon....but how soon?

Rich..how was the Pro-series final race?

[Rsaxton]

it was good Taylor was 3 qualifier and I was 4. Taylor had the fastest time of the week, but we had bad luck in the main.

[repete]

yea i read that on the sgrid awhile ago....im hoping it will be in before the Nitro Houston Open..which is Dec 4-5...can i expect it in before then?

[Spookypoop]

cant wait for this to come out, i saw it at the mugen challenge in kansas city, very impressive buggy

[Rsaxton]

OK I am at Ace and the first kits will leave today from Taiwan, when they arrive at Ace the first kits will go to the regional and team drivers to double check our work. We need this product to be error free and this is the best way for me to control this. After I hear that everyone is happy it is on to the hobby shops. We at TT are trying to do things different then before, used to be we did D&R know we do R&D.

[tperkins]

I am kinda confused about the specs of the buggy. I saw an ad in RCCA and the buggy had all red parts that looked like option parts. But the ad didnt say anything about option parts. Does the buggy come stock with all the red stuff, or will they be options? They better be, cause that is one sweet looking car.

[Spookypoop]

from what ive seen, the red towers and stuff are optional parts

stock has silver towers and nothing red as far as i can see

oh yea, cant wait!!!

[Rsaxton]

The red parts are options, you can look at the owners manual on www.acehobby.com

[synapse75]

Its a sweet looking buggy, and I was thinking about maybe getting one even tho buggies are not real big around here until I saw the price. Anybody else think Ace is asking a little much?

[ronin8451]

Nope, that is what any good race buggy will run ! If you want cheaper, then get a RTR. You will spend way more replacing the junky parts on a RTR buggy to make it as good as a " race" buggy to begin with !

Looking forward to seeing the S3 in my hands Richard !

Rick

[repete]

Its a sweet looking buggy, and I was thinking about maybe getting one even tho buggies are not real big around here until I saw the price. Anybody else think Ace is asking a little much?

its quite the bargain if u ask me

[sugs]

Where are you guys finding a price for this buggy?

[synapse75]

Im a dealer for ace, we would sell the buggy for 519. Prolly find that a little higher than bargain basement internet sites.

[repete]

yea..i expect the low balling internet stores to be around 480-500..and the average LHS price to be around 500-550...

sax if u read this today...do u know if mike works on saturdays?

[Rsaxton]

Sorry didn't check til today, no ace is closed on the weekend

[slaf]

I can find it for 590$CND (510$US)

[Maximus]

I can find it for 590$CND (510$US)

Where could I buy this buggy in Canada? I'm from Montreal....

[slaf]

Where could I buy this buggy in Canada? I'm from Montreal....

Look at www.greathobbies.com

You only pay GST tax + shipping....No Quebec tax :)

[hardadz]

The guys at Evolution Hobbies have them on order and as soon as they are released they will have them in stock. Check out the intro price and if pre-ordered they will offer flat shipping of $ 10.00 to the continental US, e-mail them if elsewhere. Go to www.evolutionhobbies.com and go to the storefront. Hey Ron, let me know when we are getting them?
Bob

[hardadz]

The first shipment of S3's will be at Evolution Hobbies on Friday. Send them an emil if interested.

[C.J.OO]

That has to be the Tuffest Chassie ever I love it.;)
that will never have any Chassie Bend Problems..

[hardadz]

They have them in as of 3:15 today along with back up parts.

[repete]

...i guess i will have to wait till next year for mine to arrive..been waitin on this buggy forever to the east of the rockies..really could have used it this weekend

[hardadz]

If you really wanted one, you would have had it Wednesday of this week from Evolution Hobbies. They got them in on Friday with back-up parts.

[repete]

considering my dad owns a hobbyshop...and we were one of the first to put in our pre-orders for the S3...i figured..i would rather pay dramatically less...but..its gettin pretty aggrivating having to wait while all the west coast places gets all there stuff....years before we will ever see it

[Windsorguy99]

If it makes you feel any better Canada has also received a shipment or two....

[repete]

yay..in the world of RC..living east of the rockies..is like living on Mars or sumtin

[hardadz]

I live in Maine, how much further East do you want and the S3 Buggy was here on Friday. A second order is also on its way, how many would you like?

[repete]

im in louisiana..and my LHS was one ofthe first to place an order for the S3..we called the moment it was put in the computer...and our buggies are nowhere to be seen..normally ACE calls us and tells a trackin number..and that the stuff has been shipped..we havent heard a word from them..i guess i will have to email richard saxton to see whats up...this is gettin out of hand..we have people waiting on these things..including myself..i just sold both of my mugens..there is no reason..we shoudlnt have our buggies at our shop

[hardadz]

Richard is not at Ace this week, he was there last week. Why would your LHS not have them, does'nt your dad own the shop? just curious. By the way, they look great, even the dealer back up packs.

[repete]

alright..yea..my dad owns the shop..

everytime i see a pic of someone with there just finsihed built S3..im like..OHHHHH..where is mine!!

[hardadz]

The folks at Thunder Tiger have got their poop together !!! The packaging of the S3 buggy is almost as good as the product inside, very colorful and informative. It was nice to see that when my local 1/8th hot dogger(driver) picked his up and opened it at the shop that he found an updated part and addendum to the instructions already in the kit. This shows the attention and dedication that TT and Richard Saxon have put into getting this product to market, and making sure that when someone receives a kit that they will have the latest items available. I am very impressed now that I have seen the kit in the flesh !! The backup parts kit that Mr Saxon has put together seems to cover anything major that might go wrong in a race. Dealers, when you order a kit get the parts pack, you'll be glad you did. For those that want one, if your LHS does'nt have them call us or visit us at www.evolutionhobbies.com and we will be happy to help you. We wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New year. Thunder Tiger, Ace Hobby, the Ace crew and R.Saxon, double kudos for a great year and a fantastic product.

PS: for those that want pricing on the back-up parts please email us at evolutionhobbies@juno.com

[repete]

yay..buggy should be here tomorrow

[hardadz]

I thought you would be here saying you got it and what you think of it?

[repete]

oh man..its wonderful, One of the kits came with a bent delta box out of the box..so i just went on and started building the other. It is the BEST kiti have every built. Instructions are the best...fit/finish..the best..all i have left is mounting radio gear, engine, and shocks. I typing this from my hobbyshop cause i had t come and get some shock oil. But this kit blew my mind, the quality is definately higher than the mugen X5's i built..and hte carbon fiber is a silvery color..which adds some serious bling..i will be finished with it today...cant wait :D :eek:

[repete]

im done with the build..and all i can say is WOW...this thing is a masterpiece..its soo pretty..i almost dont want to run it..but..thats not gunna happen..im gunna drive the wheels off this car...

[nate johnston]

you guys got any pics of your built buggy? I would like to see a pic of one and im sure everyone else would too!
thanks guys!

[hardadz]

Hi Nate
The guys at Evolution Hobbies would rather take care of their customers before building a shop demo buggy. This way you can get a first hand look and comments on what they have found and feel that their comments will mean more than comments from the shop that sells them. From the response so far they will not be able to keep them in stock long enough to build one. We will have to see how many more they order and get their hands on. I do know that they have already sold backup parts for a couple of the buggies that were bought from dealers in other states. DEALERS, you have to get the parts in to back up what you sell.

[repete]

yea..i have some pics of mine complete..i will check ur profile for ur email address..and send it them there...just have to put some new batts in teh camera to upload the pics

[repete]

hard...what i did..since its too cold out here to run..i just built my buggy..and put it on display at the shop...it caused quite a stir too...now quite a few people are trying to figure out how to free up 500bux to get the buggy lol

[hardadz]

We have two local guys that we sponser and they got the first buggies to build. When they are done we will have plenty of pics and list any comments that they have in relation to the build. As far as additional kits, they are gone, sold !!! All it takes is one close look at the kit in the flesh and the sale is made. Move over Kyosho, OFNA and the rest of the 1/8th buggies that are out there. For those that want a kit, try your LHS, if they don't have them we will have more this coming week. If you really want one just visit us on line and use our storefront to view and purchase.

[hardadz]

Is Maine the only place that received these? I know a lot of you had them on your Christmas wish list, well?, lol If your still looking, contact us.

[repete]

nah..Morgan City Louisiana recieved their's..and they are all gone

[critterracing]

heres some pix for ya.
http://www.crispycrittershobbyshop.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=331

mines been done for a week now. there are some mistakes in the book so watch when your building it.

aldo

[Spookypoop]

ive got mine built...looks freaking awsome

This is an awsome kit, absolutly perfect fit everywhere....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v298/spookypoop/DSC00662.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v298/spookypoop/DSC00665.jpg

[Fantom 15 gt]

Wow that looks awsome, how much did that ste you back if you dont mind me asking? Any chance of a top veiw?

[Spookypoop]

It set me back $524.99, the buggy was awsome to build, pretty much put it self together.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v298/spookypoop/TTR%20S3/DSC00671.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v298/spookypoop/TTR%20S3/DSC00672.jpg

[hardadz]

Looks good spooky. Just about everyone is saying that this goes together great. Evolution Hobbies has two left for those that still want one, they also have back-up parts in stock with more on the way. Let us know what you think of the handling and give the guys some information on your setup.

[Bansheeman]

Spookypoop & critterracing both have different center diff braces. Whats going on? :confused:

[Spookypoop]

I ran it today, went flawless. Had alot of fun, thing is an awsome handling buggy.

The first run comes with an optional brace, as a christmas present

i ran stock, ive got both the red one (optional part) and the present

[repete]

Spookypoop & critterracing both have different center diff braces. Whats going on? :confused:
In the first batch of kits..they came with a full aluminum machined center diff top plate..along with the regular alumin/carbon fiber top plate..its pretty much ur choice which one u want to use..i put hte carbon fiber on mine..cause it looks better

[mugenX5]

Very nice. A few things that I like are how the brakes are set up with both rods on top of the diff ( with the typical setup sometimes the bottom rod hits the spur gear) and the front upper arms pivots are extremely far apart which means less slop over time. I like the front shocks behind the shock tower ( no more broken shafts and beat up shock caps.)

If anyone has built both the S3 and an MBX5 would you share your building experience. How do the finished products compare in terms of fitment? Thanks.

[repete]

ive built both...the S3 is the better kit of the 2..and im already .5-1sec faster per lap with the s3 than i was with the x5..not a single piece of the S3 is a tight fit..its pretty much perfect..i was amazed of the quality of the S3...its prolly only rivaled by Xray

[glassdoctor]

7lbs 8oz.

Is that with reciever and 5 cell rx pack? Everything but body and fuel?

Anyone know how this compares with the XB8 and 777, etc?

[low10s]

Repete, this is Wes from KKR( my son is zach) anyway why did you give up on the Mugen, i am thinking about getting a new buggy, i like the mugen, also looked at the s3 and jammin.

[Spookypoop]

7lbs 8oz.

Is that with reciever and 5 cell rx pack? Everything but body and fuel?

Anyone know how this compares with the XB8 and 777, etc?

Yes, everything but body and fuel.
It weighs 7 lbs 10oz with a body.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v298/spookypoop/DSC00664.jpg
The XB8 is .3 ounces lighter with the body.
Not sure on the 777.

[glassdoctor]

Nice, thanks. This buggy looks cool, and it will be the easiest one to spot with those reversse front shocks. All others look alike. :)

[repete]

Repete, this is Wes from KKR( my son is zach) anyway why did you give up on the Mugen, i am thinking about getting a new buggy, i like the mugen, also looked at the s3 and jammin.
Sup wes..dude..the S3 is tons better than my mugen..infact..i sold both of my mugens for 475...im already over a second faster per lap..and i still have some tweaking to do..if ur gunna be KKR this sunday..i will let u drive this monster...

[repete]

oh and without a doubt..the best part of the buggy is..it seems to stay VERY clean..after two full days of running..its remarkably dust free and dirt free..just some on the shock towers and a-arms

[Rsaxton]

Cool deal guys, i am glad to hear that people are getting there cars. We still have a little work to find the correct setup, Billy Easton was by yesterday to get his kit and he had a lot of good ideas for testing. If you have questions please let us know
RS

[rcboy201]

hats off to you and your team Richard, taylor and steve had their buggys at the track and just at a glance the attention to detail just blew my mind, the chassis, shocks, and pretty much the whole suspension had me in aawww. i wish i could get one of these but for now i'll be running my MBX-5

[repete]

rich..do all drivers..including regional get one of those awesome looking shirts that Easton had on?

[hardadz]

Hey, hey, hey Rich
My guys were blown out by the quality of the kit. They had no problems with the instructions and feel that they do not need hop-ups at this time. I won't be able to get them to really give these a good run in competition until spring time. I have quite a few others that want this item and we just placed an additional order for parts as this seems to be the main area of concern for most buyers. I hope that the other shops that are getting these in are also ordering parts. I will contact at you Ace for some additional questions that I have. To you and the others in developing this, FANTASTIC !!
Bob
Evolution Hobbies

[Rsaxton]

the shirts are for the regional guys. We will have them for sale on the Ace web site soon.
thanks Bob

[TNX]

I just bought one of these bad boys. Thank you to Richard Saxton who gave me the push I needed to finally select a buggy. I almost had an X1 on my workbench, whew, that was close! :)

[Rsaxton]

I hope it works out for ya, the X1 is a good kit, there are a lot of great kits out there.

[TNX]

Hey Richard, was wondering what ergal parts you think are essential vs just bling? I am ordering the front and rear shock tower, the steering ackerman, not sure what else.

[TTRS3]

Alright,

Who else has one of these bad boys? I have not built mine yet, but, hopefully in teh next couple of weekends.

I was wondering that as well, what ergal parts are a must have?

[repete]

i have one..

as for must have...i say if u were to get any upgrades..Shock Towers..and Ackermen plate

[Spookypoop]

yep, akermen plate is kinda soft along with the towers, the option parts are not needed, but tons stronger

Ive got 5mm CF towers coming for mine to lose some weight, along with the lightened pillow balls

[mugenX5]

Well, since no one has posted in the other S3 forum/thread, I'll post it here:

Is there anyone in the New England area that has an assembled S3? I've only read good things about the buggy, but I'd like to look at one before spending the money. Thanks.

[hardadz]

Where are you located?

[mugenX5]

Near Cape Cod.

I'll drive anywhere if I have to.

[boyjohn]

Rsaxton I have herd the red alum parts made of CAST ALUM is this true?? i have tied to use ace web but it locks my computer up so i cant get no info on this or part numbers

[repete]

boyjohn..i have heard the same..but on my red option parts...i can see the swirls where the but was used in the milling process

[MTA4]

It may be cast, and machined afterwards. That will be more than strong enough. And there is nothing better looking than TTR Ergal parts, IMO. I am going to race my S3 stock until something breaks.

Which ball ends do I need? My LHS stocks mountains of Traxxas parts, does anyone have the part #?

[boyjohn]

thanks for update repete. couldnt really tell by some picts i sine. do you prices or part numbers??need info ?

[Mr. Schumacher]

Near Cape Cod.

I'll drive anywhere if I have to.

Where do you race around Cape Cod? Have you ever been R/C Madness track? I'm sure there's some S3s around there (after April).

I like the layout of S3 and also would like to check the car out before getting one.

[repete]

boyjohn..try www.amainhobbies.com

[Raster]

Were would someone get parts for this buggy?

[hardadz]

Try www.evolutionhobbies.com for S3 parts or for any other TT parts.

[Yub Yub]

What tires are recommended?

[repete]

that all depends on the track..

Normally..Crime Fighters work almost anywhere..

[nate johnston]

What weight diff oil do you all run? Ive heard 5-5-1 and 10-7-1. Also what weight shock oil?

[repete]

u heard terribly wrong..5-5-5 or 5-7-5 is the way to go

as for shockoil..40 weight front and rear for a bumpy track..thats all i know so far..havent tried a smooth track..but will be this weekend..my guess would be 50 weight front..maybe 50 rear though

[Mr. Schumacher]

TTR Factory Version EB4-S3 (Full Option Parts)

http://www.tt-japan.com/cardir/carjpg/s3op.jpg

http://www.thundertiger-europe.com/uploads/RTEmagicC_car-op-image_web.jpg.jpg

http://www.secureonlineshopping.biz/topoptions/images/PD1840.opt.jpg

http://www.secureonlineshopping.biz/topoptions/images/PD1841.opt.jpg

http://www.secureonlineshopping.biz/topoptions/images/PD1845.opt.jpg

http://www.secureonlineshopping.biz/topoptions/images/PD1857.opt.jpg

http://www.secureonlineshopping.biz/topoptions/images/PD1858.opt.jpg

http://www.secureonlineshopping.biz/topoptions/images/PD1859.opt.jpg

http://www.secureonlineshopping.biz/topoptions/images/PD1861.opt.jpg

http://www.secureonlineshopping.biz/topoptions/images/PD1998.opt.jpg

[stonesavage]

DO you know anything about a new thunder tiger race truck(truggy) is it just a rumor? I'm buying an lightning stadium and already own a gs sut pro if it's true I may x nay the stadium. anyone :confused:

[Spookypoop]

The Truggy is true...

http://www.directupload.net/images/050213/P378j5Bx.jpg
http://www.directupload.net/images/050213/aqiyWH8M.jpg
http://www.directupload.net/images/050213/Jhh2nypT.jpg
http://www.directupload.net/images/050213/whMFqvgp.jpg
http://www.directupload.net/images/050213/kYoExZlG.jpg
http://www.directupload.net/images/050213/QwPdYwIf.jpg
http://www.directupload.net/images/050213/pXSyGtrb.jpg
http://www.directupload.net/images/050213/629BGxS4.jpg
http://www.directupload.net/images/050213/Qc9xkmZX.jpg
http://www.directupload.net/images/050213/4gJMCQFl.jpg

Not my pics, looks good...but the wait was to long so I got the LSP

[stonesavage]

for the pics it's to bad they didn't extened the chassis and arms that the problem with my sut pro! Looks like it's the lsp. thanks again.

[Spookypoop]

15 mm ext. chassis...and as you can see ext. arms

[stonesavage]

15 mm ext. chassis...and as you can see ext. armsIT's hard to tell by the pics! spooky witch truck would you rather have! also I already have a gs sut pro I really like the 20inch lsp chassis just not shure ,the mbx-5 kit looks awesome also but it's to much$ how you likin the lsp.

[stonesavage]

http://beatyourtruck.com/Gallery/albums/othermonsters/afq.jpg

[repete]

i currently have the LSP..but will be getting the TTR Truggy as well....the LSP is a great truck..and can easily dominate a local track...i say go for it..the TTR truggy prolly wont be out for atleasts another couple of months

[Tabushi]

i currently have the LSP..but will be getting the TTR Truggy as well....the LSP is a great truck..and can easily dominate a local track...i say go for it..the TTR truggy prolly wont be out for atleasts another couple of months



Anyone klnows where you can order online parts for the S3 ?

[Mr. Schumacher]

Thunder Tiger Parts & Options (http://www.nitrohouse.com/eb-4_s3.htm)

[repete]

where do u live?

[Spookypoop]

http://amainhobbies.com

got my buggy, parts, and optional parts there!

[Mr. Schumacher]

where do u live?

USA

[Tabushi]

Chile, southamerica ...

[sosidge]

any chance you can use a regular font? This big blue business messes up my eyes...

[nate johnston]

Anyone had a much as trouble I have with the slide carb not fitting in? and the linkage? The slide carb hits the center diff brace!
What motor have you guys used? Have you done any modifications, or did your motor fit perfectly?
thanks

[repete]

nate..u have to turn ur carb...it will be at an angle..but still works smoothly..i run a SH .21 and my carb sits at a slight angle..

[nate johnston]

man..... disapointing!
what an awesome buggy! but this is a pretty serious problem.

chance of cutting the carb boot, carb sticking, etc....

hey repete did you bend the linkage to fit better to the carb? Also did you use the linkage that comes with it? cuase my ball cup doesnt screw on to the linkage rod, nor is it long enough!

[Spookypoop]

you have to run the carb with a slight angle toward the back of the buggy, it wont hurt a thing...been running it for 2 1/2 gallons now and not a single problem...

[nate johnston]

Man I really have to turn the carb! I put a longer servo arm on there and it seems to help but it really restricts me from getting into the battery/reciever box.
What an awesome buggy though besides that!

[nate johnston]

are you still running a straight linkage to the carb or did you bend it?

[Spookypoop]

straight to the carb with the carb at an angle

[DNF2005]

Just Wondering If Anyone Knows An Approximate Release Date On The New S3 Based Truggy
Thanks

[repete]

more than likely sometime in teh summer

[repete]

man..... disapointing!
what an awesome buggy! but this is a pretty serious problem.

chance of cutting the carb boot, carb sticking, etc....

hey repete did you bend the linkage to fit better to the carb? Also did you use the linkage that comes with it? cuase my ball cup doesnt screw on to the linkage rod, nor is it long enough!

nate..use the stock linkage..apparently they did have a few ball cups and rods that didnt screw on each other...but i can post a pic on how the carb should look installed..its just slightly angled..just enough for the carb boot not to rub

[nate johnston]

Wow.....
I really never expected the red parts to be cast alluminum! What were they thinking? 1st round of the pro series three guys broke the red including me! Racers Edge for me!

I just dont understand why you would make such crapy parts for a such an awesome buggy!

:(

[Spookypoop]

I got advantage racing carbon fiber towers...lighter than the red stuff by 5 grams on each, yet 10x stronger...and i got the Racer Edge Ackerman plate already...looks beefy.

[RacinRon]

I just got the King Headz center diff brace. OMG !!! Very trick , very beefy , I would say a must have. It takes the place the place of the plastic brake covers. And it is also notched out to lessen the angle of the carb. They just listed the shock towers and steering ackerman. All in a deep red. You gotta see this diff brace!!!!

[Dirthog1]

I'm using the stock linkage with the carb slightly angled as well.

Any disadvatages to an angled carb?

[bobf24]

the hole is a cricle so i can't imagine there is any,

[TexRacer]

Sweet Buggy Guys.