Etiqueta: Competitions

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MR03 Chassis Preparation for Competitions – Level 3

LEVEL 3

 
The options that we will describe in detail in Level 3 are only worth considering once you have prepared your racing machine as described in the two previous levels. 
There´s no point in applying Level 3 options if you haven´t first upgraded our car with basic but indispensable parts, nor if you haven´t simultaneously improved your of race track driving skills. 
For those drivers who have already had a taste of the world of  Mini-Z  competitions you would have experienced an important qualitative change in the conception of what the Mini-Z really is.
Competing demands good preparation, both of our machines as well as all of those aspects which concern our skills (i.e. those abilities that, after one has already begun competing, can be aquired without even realising it). 
In Level 1 we addressed the issue of the essential parts for every Mini-Z whether for competing or not. In Level 2 we described options that improved considerably the performance of our car in addition to the robustness upon collisions, impact, take off. Now in the third Level, we suggest those parts that will help you put the finishing touch on your tune-ups while giving you the possibility of having cars that are more competitive. 
 
1 – Central Shocks (Ref. MR2161)
 
 
The friction disk suspension, as with those that we recommended in Level 2, allow us to regulate both the side tipping force of the rear assembly as well as the flexion of the carbon (i.e. the actual suspension). On the one hand we are able to control the lateral movements of the rear assembly when taking curves and on the other, such characteristics help to smoothen out the bumps caused either by irregularities on the track or action of acceleration or braking.
Depending on the type of surface we have applied to the disc suspension, we may find that it returns very slowly to its original position, thus leaving our car with the rear assembly rather forced in place and indented. To avoid this effect and also adjust the longitudinal movement force of the rear assembly to our liking, we can assemble central shocks just like those described; which in addition,  will function in conjuction with the friction dics. 
You can find  various models of central shocks on the market; even oil-filled shocks. We have chosen this type because it allows us to adjust the feel of both the compression and the extension separately. 
The greater the preload that the shock damper is adjusted to, the greater the grip thatwill be attained in the front assembly, whilst losing stability in the rear assembly. 
Furthermore, for maximum precision in the adjustment of these shocks, we have a kit of optional springs with various hardnesses. (Ref. MR2162).
 
 
Generally speaking, the parts that we have been assembling on our chassis help us to increase the control that we have over it. Therefore, together with substituting the motor that we had changed previously (Level 2) for a much more powerful one, we can now also modify the electronics of our car by , incorporating more powerful FET´s. 
We could in fact assemble very powerful motors without substituting the original FETs (which are desinged to «withstand» a certain amount of force inferior to that of which is required for large motors) before hand.
By simply changing the FET and assemblying at least a 2+2 , we will immediately be able to notice an important increase in the power of our motor. Following this, after getting used to this new output of power, we can assemble a motor of maximum performance.
To proceed to the changing of the FET one needs skill, instruments (solding iron with very fine point, tin (solder), tweezers, magnifying glass etc. ) and lots of patience.
The 2+2 structure refers to the mounting of two columns of two FET in each. In the case of the new Kyosho electronics, la 2,4Ghz, the FET come readily assembled with 2 in 2 on both faces of the electronics board, thus meaning that its not necessary to set them up vertically.
There are motors such as the Atomic Chili that have such a high intake that they requiere a greater number of FETs. In such a case we would have to set up a 3+3 FET at the least. 
 
 
In the last Level of preparation of our race car; after having modified our electronics with the optional FETs, we can now consider equipping our MR03 chassis with a high performance motor.
By this we mean a motor that can turn at around 40,000rpm plus  has an acceleration and motor brake far more superior than conventional motors.
 
These are basically used for competing and one must also bear in mind the fact that  these types of motors can´t be used on any type of race circuit. Very often, carrying an over the edge motor can make things more awkward for us; causing us to taking curves too late, use up more battery power, wearing down rubbers more quickly etc.
 At this stage of our recommendations, it is indispensable that the driver try out different things and carry out various adjustments on their car in order to achieve the desired setting. One of the tests  that should be carried out prior to any competition is the selection of the motor. Power, energy intake,  top speed, motor brake etc. all of these things must be on par with our tune-up as with the conditions of the track (length, grip, etc.).
One last recommendation when it comes to mouting an optional high performance motor, is to trim back the motor cable endings that are screwed onto the electronics board. In this manner we will prevent the endings from coming into contact with and getting crossed with the components of the board itself. 
 
 
To achieve a greater rigidity and also avoid undesired movements of the rear  fiber suspension plates, we assemble this support in aluminium. The  support comes already fastened onto the chassis with two screws, on which (and not onto the chassis) the fiber plates are also screwed via two additional  orofices. 
 The length of this part together with its fastenings cause the T plate to be more firmly secured. Furthermore, the fact that metric threads  are used, the T screws can be fastened even tighter without worrying about going passing through the plastic. 
 
5 – Gyroscope (4548565144426).
 
 
At the moment, only the MR03 chassis (and the small Dnano) comes with the option of assembling this device. It is connected directly to the electronics board and acts as a type of grip control device; controling the power output and steering of our vehicle.
When the gyroscope detects that the position of the car (e.g. when exiting a curve) isn´t correct, it automatically corrects the position of the front wheels while reducing the velocity, regardless of how much we the car full throttle.
As you are well aware, the  ASF type electronics that operate at 2.4Ghz, have a software designed for setting some of its parameters. Once the Gyroscope has been connected, we can regulate the sensitivity of the device via two parameters:
ST Gain – Amount of spin intercepted by the giroscope.
TH Gain – Amount of speed that the gyroscope will control once in action.
It is evident that on circuits with lots of grip this component is negligible, however,on circuits with limited grip it will help us to be much more consistent from lap to lap. 
 
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Pre-Inscription for invited teams to the Endurance 2010 race now open

From April 7th the inscription for the event of those teams who attended last year is now open.  
As you can see in the new sporting regulations, those teams that participated in previous endurance race editions  are this year able to register in the prototypes category. This is not the case for any teams participating for the first time. 

To formalize the inscription, teams must contact  TRP by phone (+34 93 783 30 36) or e-mail (davmor@trp.cc).

Links of interest:

 Inscription form
Schedules and information Mini-Z Endurance Series 2010

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Endurance Series 2010 – General Information

Technical and sporting regulations.

Terrassa Mini-Z Endurance 12hr Series 2010, de Terrassa.
 
Technical regulations
 
Welcome to the 4th edition of the Mini-Z Endurance Series, the 12 hour Mini-Z endurance race  held in Terrassa.
 
The regulations to be used this year are basically the same as those of the previous edition. A few changes to the section on allowed chasses and slight adjustments in the categories competing in this 2010 edition, are just some of the principal novelties this year.  
 
We invite you to take a close look at all the aspects of the technical and sporting regulations so that you can become familiar with the distinctive characteristics of the two categories. In this way you will able to prepare for your participation in the race with a maximum guarantee of success.
 
The following regulations listed below will inform you about the characteristics that the participating cars of each category must possess, in addition to the general and common items that all participating vehicles must abide by.
 
 
 GT Category
 
Chassis: All Mini-z Racers with MR01, MR02, MR015 and MR03 chasses with longitudes of 86mm, 90mm 94mm or 98mm between axles are eligible to participate in the GT category. Chassis modifications for weight reduction purposes are permitted. 
 
Car bodies:  Must be plastic 1/28 scale GT type car bodies that are replicas of models of real cars that have participated at some point in endurance races such as Le Mans, Petit Le Mans, or Le Mans Series. The car body manufacturers admitted are: TRP Scale, and Kyosho. 
 
Motor: Submitted by the race officials. Must be a motor that doesn´t require FET’s in the electronics. The motor provided will come already prepared for assembly on motor mounts with micro adjustments.
 
PCB: Electronics for the Kyosho Mini-Z (27AM, AdBand, 2.4Ghz) or RV Project (27AM). The use of FET’s is allowed for enhancing electronics. 
 
Batteries: 4 AAA rechargeable NiMh battery units.
 
Rims: Any Kyosho Mini-Z aluminium or plastic rims. Under no circumstances must the rim exceed the parameters of the car body.
 
Tires: Rubber Mini-Z tires (the use of foam tires, additives or cleaners are prohibited). 
 
Minimum weight: 170g curb weight.
 
 
 
Category of Prototypes
 
Chassis: open chassis, rear traction, with only a 102mm distance between axles. 
 
Car bodies: plastic ABS car bodies, 1/28 scale that are sport prototipo car bodies that are replicas of real models that at some point have participated in endurance races such as Le Mans, Petit Le Mans, or the Le Mans Series. Distnce between axles 102mm. Car bodies allowed: Only those manufactured by Kyosho. 
 
Motor: Free running motor. Each team must select and provide the motor with which they are to participate in the race. 
 
PCB: Only the Kyosho ASF 2.4Ghz electronics are allowed. The use of FET´s to enhance electronics is permitted. 
 
Batteries: 4 AAA rechargeable NiMh battery units.
 
Rims: Any Kyosho Mini-Z aluminium or plastic rims. Under no circumstances must the rim exceed the parameters of the car body.
 
Tires: Rubber Mini-Z tires (the use of foam tires, additives or cleaners are prohibited). 
 
Minimuim weight: 160g curb weight.
 
 
Aspects in common for both categories:
 
We have listed below those aspects of the regulations that affect both categories that will be competing in the 2010 Mini-Z Endurance series. 
 
 
– Each team is entitled to a maximum of 3 car bodies of the same car model and design. These will be inspected by the race officials prior to the beginning of the race and will remain in parc fermé. 
 
– Each team will be entitled to a maximum of 3 chasses that will be inspected prior to the beginning of the race. These chasses mustn´t have any assembled or pre-mounted parts and will remain under the custody of the race organisers in parc ferme. In the case of handcrafted chasses in the prototypes category, they can be submitted already assembled, provided they don´t house any elements that don´t form part of the chassis itself. The race organisers reserve the right to request the disassembly of parts of the chassis which, due to their structure, pose any unfair disadvantage for the use of other commercial chasses. 
 
– Each is entitled to a maxmum of 3 electronics. All electronics must be equal and , once they have been inspected, must remain in safe keeping in parc fermé. These replacement electronics mustn´t carry any preassembled component that forms part of the vehicle chassis. 
 
– Each one of the teams of the Prototypes category is allowed a maximum of three motors to be used in the race; one that is mounted already on the car used for competing and two that will remain in the hands of the race organisers.
 
– Should any participant need any of these spare parts, a team member must make his way to the race officials, hand in the used part and collect the replacement part. No other order of procedure will be accepted. 
 
– When the race officials see fit during the race, they will hand a light set to each team. This will take place minutes before the beginning of the night leg, in which it is mandatory for such lighting sets to be used on the bodies of all competing cars.
 
– The beginning and ending of the night leg will be decided based on a draw and only the race organisers will have this information.  
 
– The lights set should function perfectly throughout the night stage (2 white front lights and 2 red rear lights). Should there be any breakdowns, the team in question must repair the lighting system in their respective boxes. The lights must be perfectly visible, both in the front as well as the rear of the vehicle. 
 
– The lights set will be supplied without any type of connector and  thus cables will need to be soldered in order to carry out the necessary connections. 
 
– The car body won´t be able to incorporate any type of preinstalled electrical fixtures for the light system. Evidently, the car bodies that don´t come readily prepared for housing lights are allowed to have orofices for  housing the LEDs. For this 2010 edition, and taking into consideration previous editions, preinstalled light systems on the chassis (supports, cables with connectors etc.) are allowed.    
 
– Each team is free to use the brand and model of tires that they so desire (remember that foam tires, nor any additives or cleaners are allowed), except for the stages of the race in which the race organisers say the contrary.
 
– During the rain stage, the tires that are used by each team must be issued by the race officials minutes before the start of the race leg in question. The start and finish of this leg will be decided based on a draw prior to the beginning of the race. Only the race organisers will have knowledge of these results.   
 
These tires will be issued with a special identification mark by the race officials who will be responsible for verifying that they are being used by each team during the rain stage. Their use will be mandatory throughout the the rain stage. 
 
– The race organisers will supply the connector cable for the transponder as well as the transponder itself to every participating team. The lap counter system that will be used is the GiroZ. The proper functioning of the GiroZ transponder as with its assembly on the vehicle will be the responsibility of each individual team. 
Should there be  any malfunctions of the transponder, the race organisers will evidently replace the Giro transponder so that the team concerned may be able to continue racing.
  
 
SPORTING REGULATIONS
 
– Each team is entitled to a minimum of 3 drivers and a maximum of 4. 
– The participating drivers must identify themselves as such and each one must race a minimum turn of 30 minutes and a maxium of 60 minutes. 
 
– Every team member must wear a visible team shirt so as to make themselves easily distiguishable. All drivers must wear a visible uniform with its respective colours and logos. 
 
– The race organisers will supply all identifiers and certifications to all team members so as to differenciate beween the drivers of each category. 
 
– The teams participating in the Mini-Z Endurance Series can only be inscribed in the GT car category. 
 
– Each team will have to elect their own captain, who in turn will serve as the only valid spokesperson between the team and the race organisers. The team captain must also be registered as a driver.  
 
– The duration of the race will be 12 hours without interrutpion. 
 
– The transmitters of any drivers not racing at the time must remain in parc fermé under the custody of the race organisers. 
 
– The inspections must occur BEFORE and AFTER the race, in which all technical and reglatory requirements must be met. No exceptions will be made with reference to vehicle wieght. 
 
– Any battery changes or vehicle repairs must always be carried out in the box zone specially arranged for this type of operation. 
 
– At all times, one of the team members must carry out the role of race marshall. Each team will have a designated area especially for this task . Should this not be the case, any team that doesn´t provide this service will be penalized.  
 
– The event organisers reserve the right to take action in any situations, ocurrences that may affect the smooth flowing of the race. At the most opportune moment such situations will be brought to the attention of all particpants. 
 
– Any uncivic actions or acts of poor sportsmanship will lead to the expulsion of the entire race team. 
 
– While the safety car is present on the track it is absolutely prohibited to overtake other drivers or overtake the safety car itself. At this point all cars must drive at the same speed that is established by the safety car while respecting the most recent position of the vehicles on the track. Should a vehicle have to reincorporate istelf onto the track from the box area, while the safety car is on track the vehicle must circulate in last position; behind the safety car as well as the rest of the participants.
 
– Should any vehicle break down outside of the box area and in addition be unable to make its own way to the repair zone, the race marshalls will carry the disabled car to the box area. Once repaired, the cars must always re-enter the race from the box area. Any occurance or action involving the driver or car that impedes the vehicle from driving correctly around the circuit must be resolved while the car is still stationed in the box zone. The race organisers will place strict sanctions on those cars that deliberately stop while on track in order to resolve these types of problems. 
 
– Participants are not allowed to eat, drink, smoke nor talk on the phone while driving or while carrying out the task of race marshall. 
 
– The organisers reserve the right to oblige a team to repair their car if it happens to hinder the smooth flowing of the race. 
 
– In order for any team discrepancies to be formerly addressed, a 60€ deposit fee must first be submitted. If such a formal complaint goes through, the amount mentioned will be returned to the claimant and the accused team will be sanctioned accordingly by the race organisers. 
 
– It is mandatory that all driver exchanges only take place while the car is stationed in the box zone. The incoming and outgoing drivers must exchange their posts in the area designated by the race organisers. 
 
– When a driver enters the racers podium they must remain there driving for a minimum of 30 minutes. The organisers will randomly assess the compliance of this regulation. Should this regulation not be adhered to, sanctions by way of penalizations will be faced. 
 
– The organisers recommend that each team have in their possesion all the necessary means for controlling the minimum driving time of each driver. 
 
– If a stop and go penalty is recieved by the race organisers, the sanctioned vehicle will be allowed three laps in order to carry out a controlled stop in the box zone. 
 
 
PENALIZATIONS
 
– Car not repaired in the box zone: 10 laps.
 
– Lights set not repaired within a 3 lap margin during the night stage. 10 laps for each lap done in excess of the regulation. 
 
– Failure to take a minimum of 30 minutes per driving turn: 10 laps for each minute spared. 
 
– Taking turns of over 60 minutes: 10 laps for each minute of time exceeded. 
 
– Failure to utilise the rain tires supplied during the rain leg: 20 laps for each minute spared. 
 
– Failure to carry out race assistance tasks: 50 laps.
 
– Failure to use the required driver / category certification or identification: 10 laps.
 
– Failure to carry out a stop and go: 50 laps.
 
– Uncivic conduct or bad sportsmanship: Expulsion of the entire team. 
– In all other circumstances, the race organisers will decide on what type of sanction to apply. 
 
 
The race organisers. 

 

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7th Toulouse Trophy

Last weekend the 7th race of the Toulouse trophy in France took place. This race, in its 7th edition was once again a success with more than 35 drivers inscribed.

As is customary it was an excellent weekend of races in which the sponsors as well as the drivers had a great time.
This year there were 3 categories, Open, Modified and as a demo category, the Mini-Z Megane Trophy.
As you can observe in the photos, Trpscale has put out a very limited edition of these car bodies for all event attendees, together with the competition registration. 

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Kyosho Fellbach Masters in Germany

We came across a few surprises in Germany; a very much different racing format and above all the installation of the Kyosho Itag system. 
We leave you with some photos showing the operation of things. The progress of our competing team will later be posted. 
 

Gallery of images from the Kyosho Fellbach Masters in Germany

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The trail runs begin for the Mini-Z Kyosho Masters

Escrito por Alex Rubio el 13 Marzo 2010  

All of our drivers are ready:
   

Alejandro Lopez (Stardard and Expert)
Carlos Lambás (Expert)
Noe Miralta (Group C and Expert)
David Moret (Group C and Expert)
Uri Valdé (Group C and Expert)  

Ismael Rojo (Standard and  Expert)
 

Last Saturday morning some drivers were able to train; something really necessary given that the RCP Tracks are set up on the smooth face and both the set up as well as the grip is completely different from what the drivers are used to.   

The first problem was the fact that the rear tire was the one that operated. We have tried various compounds, from the studded Kyosho MT10, the PN Racing RR06, Parada, CRR06 and the grip still hasn´t been achieved.
The tires that seem to perform the best, but nevertheless without excellent results, are the 20g MZW 38-20 by Kyosho.  

Alejandro Lopez decided to set up the Mini-Z 4×4 and it appears that the combination of 20g Kyosho rear tires y 20g RC Atomic ones, the car gives good results.

Now the pre-qualifiers are taking place and the timing system has been causing  a few problems. Due to the use of the Kyosho  ICTAG on the track the height of the chassis has had to be altered drastically. 

The placement of the plastic underlay in order for the Itag to be used has also led to the cars having to be raised so that the underside doesn´t touch the ground. We have observed that with this 30 lap counter system, whether it be due to the software or the hardware, 2 or 3 laps have to be added manually. 

We hope that these time keeping problems can be solved as soon as possible. On another note, the how things have been set up in the hall is really good.
Lots of tables, lots of space, many stalls selling different items; a bar, show case of modified 1:1 cars, as well as a few 1:5 scale car exhibitions.

At the moment, Ismael Rojo is the one who is runing the fastest speeds with an 18’2 time , which is incredible if you consider how long and large the track is that they have assembled.  

The Gallery of images from the article commence the qualifying rounds of the Mini-Z Kyosho Masters  

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Preparation of the MR03 Chassis for competitions LEVEL 2

LEVEL 2
 
Once our Kyosho Mini-Z MR03 has the option parts that allow us to take it to the level of perfection that we wish  (parts recomended in Level 1), it´s time to consider starting to compete with our little racing car. By competing we mean, either against other drivers or against the chronometer. 
It´s evident that, as easy as all of this Mini-z stuff might seem, without some good training sessions to let us get used to our machine plus a minimum of option parts that help us to improve the on track performance of the car, the possibilities of competing with our Mini Z won´t be feasible.
To continue with the option part process of our Mini-Z, with a focus on competing, would should bank on the following: 
1-      The durability of key parts of the car. We must be sure that nothing´s going to break during the race. 
2-      The possibility of making constant improvements to the set up of the car and the use of option parts  that enable us to increase the number of adjustments and settings. 
So therefore, in this second level of preparation of the Mini-Z MR03, we will mount parts that have a dual purpose; on the one hand they make certain sections of the car more robust, and on the other hand they help to improve the performance of the race car on track. 
Just as we did in Level 1 we´ll go section by section. In this case, the first two parts that we suggest make up part of a group of option parts whose function is to reinforce the MR03 chassis. 
 
1 – Mini-Z MR03 steering arm (Ref. MR3032S)
 
Installing this option part on our car will give us many possibilities. To start with, the steering will be made more robust and will avoid breakages following knocks and collisions. These steering arms that we propose also give us the possibility of lowering the chassis height on the front assembly and thus the lowering of the car´s center of gravity (greater velocity when taking curves and lower risk of flipping over). Moreover we´ll be able to access the  King Pin (the axle that the arm passes through) and lubricate it from the inside of the arm (you can see the cross section of the center of the steering arm).
Furthermore, the nylon housing that incorporates the steering arm that the sterring arms slide through, reduces the friction between the arm and the axle and smoothens the movement of the front assembly suspension.
As you can observe, on the MR03 chassis, when we press down on the front suspension, we alter the angle of incidence on the wheels against the floor (we call this effect a camber or fall).
 
2 –  Steering rod for the Mini-Z MR03 (Ref. MR3019S)
 
Once we have replaced the steering arms on our chassis, we must also change the steering rod. Apart from the advantages that the aluminium rod offers us, substituting the original plastic rod for an aluminium one is a good option because it´s not adviseable for the small pins of the arms to exert force against the plastic orofices of the rod (on impact, the plastic orofices of the steering rod are always what take the brunt of it).  
In addition to its sturdiness, with an optional steering rod we can also modify the car´s geometry. If you take a good look, the steering rods of the MR03 are divided into to narrow and wide ones and have different degrees of convergence (toe in) and divergence (toe out) with respect to the direction of movement. 
The car body used will «oblige» us to assemble a long or narrow type rod. In any regard, selecting a divergent or convergent rod will modify the performance and stability of our Mini-Z. 
If what we want is stable and accurate steering, especially on straight lines, we use divergent steering rods; the greater the divergence, the greater the stability. However, at the same time, we´ll lose speed on curve entry. If on the contrary, our car is already stable enough on straights, we can mount steering bars with different degrees of convergence. Converging bars will make our cars become more agitated, unstable on straights (the car trajectory will have to be continuously corrected), but much faster on curve entry.
 
 
 
Once we´ve decided to start competing and make full use of our chassis, we´ll have to have some option parts at our disposal that give us more control over certain sections of the car. At Level 1 we exchanged the original plastic suspension plates for fiber ones.  You´ll notice that when these swing laterally, they quickly and freely return to their original position and with greater or lesser force, depending on the hardness of the plate. Such a quick return can cause the bouncing of the rear assembly and as a result, a loss of grip. 
The friction of the suspension discs helps us to dampen the momentum in the torsion of these fiber T plates, thus diminishing the swing motion of the rear axle.  
By using this suspension kit we´re able to adjust the friction force of the discs (assembling springs of varying hardness) and subsequently the speed of the lateral torsion of the rear assembly. 
To achieve optimum tact on the rear assembly we can play a little with the hardness of the suspension (T) plates as well as the hardness of the suspension springs for whatever surface we may be competing on. 
 
4 – Motor mount  94 and 98 (Ref. MR2295S)
 
The motor mount is one of the vital elements of our list of option parts for our Kyosho Mini-Z. One of the advantages of the MR03, from our point of view, if the rear section of our chassis is identical to its predecessor, the MR02. Therefore all the parts that we used on our MR02 can also be used on the  MR03, including the disc suspension. 
The motor mount basically has two functions;  make the rear assembly more robust, and facilitate the fixture of the motor to the chassis. Using these  motor mounts, the micro adjustment between the motor pinion and the crown  of the differential is totally accurate and easily carried out. Other characteristics that these motor mounts (available in aluminium) offer us are:
  • The option of adjusting the height of the arm that supports the friction discs. 
  • The option of raising or lowering the rear axle through the accesories that come with the motor mount, with which we can further adjust the height of the car. 
  • The motor acts directly on the mount, meaning that, in addition to reducing the weight of the entire assembly, the metal on metal contact helps to dissipate the temperature of the motor. Furthermore, the fact that the motor runs «free» only on one side and without any type of encasement, it´ll be a good idea to refrigerate it. 
  • Strictly speaking, the motor mount, allows us to use both 94mm car bodies as well as those with a 98mm wheelbase, provided that they are in MM (Medium Motor) position.    
 
5 – Pn Racing Speedy Motor 07 (Ref.111550)
 
In order to start competing with our Mini-Z we clearly need to mount a motor with greater performance. The stock motor that comes with the original Mini-Zs are ok to start off with, but they lack some vital characteristics for competitions.
A motor like the one that we propose in this section can be set up on optional motor mounts (it includes holes in the front especially for this purpose), we can also replace the carbon brushes when they become worn without having to change the entire motor. 
The fact that it carries bearings also helps to reduce the energy consumption of the battery and extend the life of the motor. A motor with these characteristics, for use on the original stock electronics, provide us with a performace efficiency that is much greater than the original motor. We have great top speed and take off speed. 
Another advantage is that with the use of this type of motor , once we decide to modify the electronics (assembling multi FET systems) we can still use the same motor with the resulting increase in performance. 
We recommend the use of this type of motor, multifaceted, that can be used with original as well as modified electronics. 
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Catalonia Crawling Open

Please find attached to this article the race regulations so that you may encouraged to actively participate in this competition.  

Should you have any queries or doubts feel free to use the crawlers forum created specifically to discuss this competition.

Crawlers forum 2.2

 CRAWLERS 2.2 CATALONIA REGULATIONS
 
1. INTRODUCTION
These regulations are intended to standardize the competitions of radio-controlled crawler  vehicles that take part at different locations of our geographical territory. Unlike other countries, this race will take place on different types of terrain and not only on the rocky surfaces that are typically used in other countries.
 
2. VEHICLE CHARACTERISTICS:
 
2.1 Limited to 4 wheel  vehicles
 
2.2 Crawler class 2.2 scale
The tread will be a maximum of 25.75 +,- 5% cm
Distance between front and rear axles 31.75 +,- 5% cm
Rims will be 6.00 cm in diameter
Dual motor vehicles are allowed
Home-made or factory tube chasses are allowed provided they fall within the 2.2 scale. 
 
2.3 Spinning is only allowed with the front wheels (steering kits are not allowed) front and rear assembly blocks are allowed. 
 
2.4 It is mandatory to race with a car body, with the exeption of the tubular models. In the latter case the car body must be at least 1/10 scale. This can be scaled down or modified as long as a minimum 70% of the original is maintained and at all times maintaining the original factory cockpit width (this also has to remain close to the original).
 
2.5 Accepted car bodies
All those that are either self-made or factory made for  2.2 crawlers.
 
 
3. GENERAL RACE REGULATIONS
3.1 The winner will be the person with the lowest number of points at the end of the race. 
Scoring begins once the vehicle has crossed the 1st gate. 
Scoring is completed once the vehicle has crossed the last gate. 
There are no training sessions or test runs. Violators will be receive a DNF 6.10 at that particular zone. ( see section 6.10 )
 
3.2 The starting order will be determined by a draw that will take place at the 1st zone. The subsequent zones will be determined based on the last  ranking of each (from last to first)
.
3.3No electric or manual trailers nor electric winches are allowed. 
..
3.4 The vehicle must complete the zone using the same wheel type, tread, diameter and height as used at the beginning of the race. 
 
3.5 The chassis must not be replaced by another at any time during the race.  
 
3.6 Drivers are allowed to make height alterations to their vehicle and tire changes between the different zones.  
 
4. In the case of two drivers with equal scores the winner is the one with the fastest time. 
 
5. If the race hasn´t been timed  a «sudden death»  tie break will take place between the drivers. In such a case, the driver  who had been penalized previously or who progressed the least will be the loser.
 
6. PENALIZATIONS
 
6.1 Vehicle Touches: + 5 points, are given for any  vehicle touch whether it be deliberate or accidental, during the race. 
 
6.2 Repairs: + 5 points, Vehicle repairs that don´t require the use of tools can be carried out without having to face any additional sanctions. If the driver has to raise the car in order to inspect any damages ocurred, the race judges must be notified before hand. 
Should the use of tools be necessary, there will be a penalty. Repairs that can be done in less than one minute can be done on the track; if such repairs should require more than one minute they must done off the track in make-shift pit boxes. If the repairs take more than 30 minutes, the driver will receive a DNF (did not finish) 6.10  penalty, whether it´s in the driver´s  favour or not, the points will be added  to the driver´s score. 
 
6.3 Rollovers: + 5 points. Are given when the vehicle rolls over and isn´t able to land on its wheels without the assistance of the judge or driver. 
 
If the vehicle needs to be touched in order to righten itself, this task must be carried out by the race judges in «hinge» fashion, meaning that the vehicle must be pushed over on its own axis  (whether to the left or right) and must face the same direction as it had from the start. 
 
6.4 Rollovers ? Those vehicles that are able to land back on their wheels  without  vehicle touching will not be penalized. There won´t be any reverse penalties given until the vehicle has landed on all four of its wheels. 
 
6.5 Reposition: + 10 points. These are given when the driver has to carry out a reposition outside of the car´s corresponding zone in order to continue. The judge shall be the one to reposition the vehicle.  
  
6.7 Gate marker: + 10 points. Are given when all four wheels or any other part of the vehicle aren´t able to completely cross the gate  markers; every time the vehicle touches a gate marker during its maneuvers a penalty will be given.   
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6.8 Revers: + 1 point. A point is given when the vehicle reverses after having made forward progress. A reverse is when the wheels move the vehicle backwards. A maximum  1/4 wheel spin is permitted.  
  
Any more than this is considered a reverse. 
 
6.9 Maximum gate pionts: the maximum sanctions given  are +20 for each gate. Once a driver has been given the maximum sanction of 20 points between gates he will be placed at the start of the next gate. 
.
6.10 What is a DNF (not finished) it is a total of + 40 point and is given when a driver has not completed a zone in the required time and if he abandons the race for any given reason. (rapairs impossible, leaves the competition).
 
7 BONUSES
 
7.1 Progress bonuses –1point Progress bonuses are given for every gate crossed successfully; 1 bonus is given which is deducted from the total score after having completed a zone; once the driver has exited due to an  out of time (DNF 6.10)  the points obtained during the course of the zone will be added or deducted.  
 
7.2 Special bonus gates -10 pionts: These have a special set of regulations and will be distiguished by the gate colour. 10 points will be given when these gates are crossed between the previous gate and a bonus gate. Bonus gates will be within a zone once the driver has exited due to an out of time (DNF 6.10) . , The points obtained during the course of the zone will be added or deducted.  
 
 
8. EVENT TIMING
 
All scoring will be carried out using a specially made program for such events. 
 
8.1 Drivers must complete the race within the time preestablished by the head judge. Should a driver not complete a zone within the required time limit a DNF 6.10 will be given.
 
8.2 The clock starts once the driver has crossed the 1st gate and stops once the last gate has been crossed. 
 
9. RACE FORMAT 
The gates of each zone are bordered at each extremes with tennis ball halves. This distance should be a minimum of 50 cm. There will be from 2 to 4 gates per zone, with each race consisting of 2-4 zones, depending on the timing requirements. 
 
9.1 Zones    One zone with two judges will be in operation for all participants. Once the zone has been completed, while the driver is being handed his card, another participant will enter with a different judge. In this way, more visibility and participation opportunies will be provided during the event.  
 
9.2 Drivers.  Personal cards will be handed out to each pilot prior to the race which shall be handed to the judge so that they could record the bonuses y penalties as with the zone times. Once the race has finished, the judge will return the card to the driver and will be able to verify and accept the score and also sign it in the judge´s presence and hand it to the time-keepers.
 
9.3 The judges: These are the individuals responsible for the vehicles and their penalizations during the race. No driver must interfere with any judge´s decision. Judges must report any such offence when commited. 
 
Glossary: The driver´s meeting will be held prior to the race so they can be notified of the race angements as well as any possible changes. (the attendance of the drivers is mandatory).
 
  11 races will be held and 2 will be ruled out
 
Shedules    at 9:00 at the zone, registration and start at  9:30, finish at 14:30
 
In case of rain, the decision to hold the race or cance it will be made on the track at the judge´s discretion. 
 
 Registration will be 15 euros. These funds will go towards the judge´s fees as well as the cost of the materials used. 
At the end of the championship, personalised tophies will be awarded and a draw will be held of items related to the hobby.
To be elegible for a championship final trophy each driver must have participated in a  minimum of 6 races. 
For the championship final draw each driver will have as many numbers as the amount of races in which they have participated. 
 
Any insults or bad  behaviour will be sanctioned with a disqualification from the race  and in the case of repeat offenders; desqualification from the competition.
 
The information website for information on placings and other news         www.technicalrp.es (  Crawlers forums)
 
CRAWLERS OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP DATES; 2010
 
20/02 TORRELLES DEL LLOBREGAT
13/03 CALAMOT ( GAVA )
10/04 EMITA BRUGUES ( GAVA )
01/05 LA ROCA DEL VALLES
22/05
19/06
10/07
04/09
09/10
06/11
18/12
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MR03 chassis – competition preparation – Level 1

There are a great number of spare parts and kits available on the market for the new mini-Z MR03 by Kyosho. For this reason, we have divided this article into three parts (or stages) of preparation based on the tune-up level that we want to reach.

In this case, the order of the preparation levels is important as it will help us to improve our driving skills at the same time as the performance of our race car. There is no point in driving a super modified Mini-Z if we aren´t even able to handle it with stock parts.

LEVEL 1

 This is the basic level of optional parts that all Mini-Z MR03 chasses should house. These parts will allow for improved overall efficiency plus will provide us with better handling and total control of the car. For this first stage of preparation the recommended options are:

 1- Bearings: (Ref: TRP013)

 

 

With this ítem we enable the entire set of transmission fixtures to run more smoothly. As a result, the car gains acceleration, as well as  velocity and star performance in general. We must also mention that if you want your bearings to rotate with greater ease and speed they should be cleaned with special with special degreasing liquid before they are assembled. This is because, once manufactured, they are coated with a layer of factory protective grease. If not cleaned, the end result will be that the rotating speed of the bearing  won´t be very fluid. The use of bearings that are in good condition reduces battery power consumption. Therefore that act of mounting the bearings is just as important as keeping them clean and in good running condition.  

 In total, the bearings kit consists of 7 units. The four similar bearings are to be mounted on the front rims, 2 per rim. The remaining three bearings go on the rear wheel assembly; two of which go on the motor mount and the other on the outer part of the rear rim located on the crown of the differential.

2- Suspension “T” Plates: (Ref: 10019)

By incorporating this ítem onto your Mini-Z, you will improve the lateral torsion of the rear wheel assembly of the car; thus avoiding unnecessary bouncing caused by the plastic plate. In this manner the traction, stability and grip of the MR03 chassis will be notably improved.  This kit of “Ts” (so-called given their shape) are in fact comprised of three plates of different hardnesses. To begin with, its advisable to assemble an intermediate plate first and then try the other two in order to fine tune your preferred tune-up. Generally speaking, you would want to know that on smooth, foam-type  surfaces, soft plates are used to allow for much smoother lateral torsion. On the other hand, on hard surfaces such as carpet, wider plates, which have a much harder torsion, are used.  

With this ítem we enable the entire set of transmission fixtures to run more smoothly. As a result, the car gains acceleration, as well as in velocity and star performance in general. We must also mention that if you want your bearings to roll with greater ease and speed you they should be cleaned with special degreasing liquid before they are assembled. This is because once manufactured they are coated with a layer of factory protective grease. If not cleaned, the end result will be that rotating speed of the bearing is concerned won´t be very fluid. The use of bearings that are in good condition reduces battery power consumption. Therefore that act of mounting the bearings is just as important as keeping them clean and in good running condition.  

 

 3- Front shocks: (Ref: TRP016)

 

 To adjust the performance of the front part of the car to your liking, you´ll have to try different types of front shock with their different hardnesses. For the front of the car you should use the hardest type so that the front of the car will tend to slide out on wide , open corner. We will also mount softer shocks as we want the front of the car to close in tighter when it swerves. As with the suspension plates, it is worthwhile beginning with the shocks of medium hardness and later on try other hardnesses in order to put the finishing touches on the car tuneup. The function of the suspension is closely related to the type of tire that you use. A bad fitting in the combination of shocks and front tires will make your car undriveable, way out of control and very difficult to manuever.  

 The combination of very soft tires with shocks that are somewhat hard or vice versa; (harder tires with softer shocks),  in many cases is the key to a good tune up.

 

4- Ball differential: (Ref: TRP011)

The stock differential used by the Mini-Z MR03 is the planet-satellite type which is the reason for which it doesn´t come with a regulating component. As a result of this, depending on the surface on which it runs, the use of stock differentials can cause continuous over swerving or even spinning if the surface is somewhat slippery. In order to avoid this effect, the assembly of a ball differential is vital, given that it enables us to change the power supply of the motor to the wheels. On slippery surfaces we can leave the differential a little loose to prevent the wheels from skidding when gas is given to the motor and we can then gain  greater control of the vehicle.

 This differential, made of steel (axle and discs), aluminium (volts and disc supports), delrin (crown) and ceramic (ball differential), comes already assembled and greased, ready for use on your Mini-Z MR03, together with conventional 6T, 7T, 8T, 9T, 10T sprockets.

 5- Wheel nuts (Ref: TRP010)

 

   

 

Every time you assemble and disassemble the rims of your car, the nuts that come with the original kit must first be loosened and then tightened. These original nuts are made of plastic and tend to quickly lose the braking effect, making them difficult to tighten them to your liking.  For this reason we recommend aluminum brake nuts. You can fasten and loosen them over and over again and will also give your Mini-Z a more stylish look.  

 

 

6- Tires:

 
 This first level of preparation is recommended for when, once you have carried out the modifications of your chassis, described previously, you begin to to look for tires that improve its traction. If the car is used for racing around the house you ought to know that the grip will be seriously compromised. This is why there are no specially made tires for surfaces like wood or ceramic tiles. In such cases one would have to opt for mouting soft tires (generally speaking) onto the rear assembly (between 10 and 20 degrees by any manufacturer) and harder ones on the front assembly (around 40 degrees), so that the performance of the car  could be smoother and easier to handle.

 Other common surfaces, for use in competitions such as carpets or tracks made of foam come with rubber tires made specially for this purpose.

Coming soon we will be continuing with the development of our chassis with additional possible options. This will be Stage 2.