I built a Sand Scorcher (2010 re-release) for a vintage class race on a clay track, with the following modifications:
- Kamtec lexan body & black ABS mechanism box
- 12 mm hex adapters for modern wheels
- Softer DIY 2 mm brass torsion bars
- Tamiya 53574 O-rings for shocks
- Pargu aluminium bumpers
- Tamiya 54897 ball diff
- Sport tuned motor
- Transponder
- Shorty lipo
- 40 MHz rx
The running weight is 1670 g.
Unfortunately, in the end the race didn't happen due to lack of other participants. I drove the modern class instead with B6, but after the race I was able to test some 10 mins on the track with the Sand Scorcher, and it felt pretty good. Though I was using Rough Rider wheels & Sand Blaster tyres which were not quite optimal (no grip whatsoever). I think with some adjustments this could be made a pretty driveable car on track. Sadly clay tracks are getting pretty rare over here (turf dominates), so I'm not sure where I'll drive this car next time. Maybe some slippery indoor concrete track.
This is actually my first Tamiya car, although I have browsed their catalogs since early 1980s (but then took the RC10 path). I always found SRBs interesting, and now after building one, I still think surely they are cool and interesting cars. I also have some further changes in mind, like drilling holes to gear box to allow other motors and maybe installing a slipper.
