Tamiya F104X1 Build – Part 3 – Motor Install

CompetitionX Build Blog

Tamiya F104X1 Build – Part 3 – Motor Install

Tamiya F104X1 Build

Formula 1 is the pinacle in all of motorsports. Unfortunately, the same can’t be said for Radio Control. However, Tamiya has released their new F104X1 that is sure to change the way people see this segment of RC. The scale realism, the authentic side-by-side, open wheel racing and the sheer pleasure of the final product are all checkmarks in the positive column for this class. Follow along as I do a step-by-step build of this awesome racing vehicle.

Build Notes:
Pay attention to the direction of the motor spacer. The cooling fins should be facing the motor.

Only 540 motors will fit the F104X1 (either brushed or brushless).

The Build – Part 3
Part 3 is simply installing the motor. It’s an easy section and only requires 3 steps.

Tamiya F104X1 Build Step 22

Installing the motor is pretty simple. Slide the screws through the motor plate, rear pod, motor spacer and into the motor. Do not tighten yet. The motor plate and motor spacer are required to help cool the motor since the rear pod is made out of plastic. If you upgrade the rear pod to aluminum, both of these pieces can be eliminated. Also, make sure the wire connecting tabs on the motor (and sensor wire harness) are all pointed up to make it easier to solder.

Tamiya F104X1 Build Step 23

Once the motor is in, you can attach the pinion gear.

Tamiya F104X1 Build Step 24

Slowly slide the motor towards the spur gear until the pinion and spur make contact. Back the motor of a tick and tighten the motor screws. You want there to be a TINY HINT of backlash (free play) between the pinion and spur…as little as possible since we are running 64p gears. If there is too much space you’ll strip the spur, so a smaller gap is better here.

Stay tuned for Part 4 – Installing the Front Suspension, Part 1.