Tamiya F104X1 Build – Part 6 – Top Deck

CompetitionX Build Blog

Tamiya F104X1 Build – Part 6- Top Deck

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:
The electronics mounts can be used in their stock configuration or modified to work as a battery stay. If you are using any kind of shorty LiPo pack, these can be used to hold the battery in place, eliminating the need for battery tape.

The Build – Part 6
The top deck is a simple, straightforward step.

Tamiya F104X1 Build Step 40

The manual has you installing the electronics mounts over the posts. Building it that way is completely fine, but a buddy of mine showed me a trick way to utilize these. With a dremel, shave off the hoops on the side shown. Don’t cut down into the channel, just smooth the side off. Put these aside for now and we’ll get back to them.

Tamiya F104X1 Build Step 41

Slide the black o-rings over the rear body posts.

Tamiya F104X1 Build Step 42

Install the body posts and antenna mount to the upper deck. The o-rings on the body posts help give them a little bit of float, helping to save the body in a crash as compared to a rigid body mounting system.

Tamiya F104X1 Build Step 43

Attach the center shock and side damper ballends. Place a little blue loctite on the center shock mount screw…don’t forget the shim! The side damper ballend does not need loctite because it already screws into a locknut.

Tamiya F104X1 Build Step 44

Attach the top deck to the chassis. If you are using the electronics mounts as the come in the kit, you will need the black o-rings. If you are going with the optional method, you can leave those off. Don’t forget to add a small dab of blue loctite on all the screws.

Stay tuned for Part 7 – Installing the electronics.