If there’s one kit from Tamiya’s lineup that always makes people stop and smile, it’s the Mammoth Dump Truck (kit no. 58268). Released in 2000, this wasn’t your typical buggy, touring car, or even a monster truck. Instead, it was Tamiya doing what Tamiya does best: taking inspiration from real-world machinery and scaling it down into a unique RC experience. And when we say “scaling down,” we’re being generous—because even in 1/20 scale, this beast is massive.
The Real Inspiration
The Mammoth Dump was modeled after the Komatsu haul trucks used in mining operations—gigantic earth-moving machines that dwarf just about everything else on wheels. Tamiya captured that sense of presence perfectly. The huge tires, squared-off cab, and working dump bed made it look like it rolled straight out of a quarry.
The Chassis and Design
Underneath that industrial exterior, the Mammoth Dump used a modified version of Tamiya’s Juggernaut chassis, itself an evolution of the Clod Buster-style big truck layout. It featured:
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2WD drive with a solid axle at the rear.
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A 750-size motor—that’s right, not your usual 540, but a big, torquey can built to haul this beast.
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Leaf-spring style suspension to give it a bit of realism, though handling was never the point here.
This wasn’t a fast RC truck. In fact, it was downright slow compared to most kits of its time. But that was the charm—it lumbered around just like the real mining trucks it was modeled after.
The Working Dump Bed
One of the highlights (and a big reason people still talk about it) is the functional dump bed. With the right motor unit installed, you could tilt the massive rear bed up and down, just like the real thing. For many hobbyists, this was less about racing or bashing and more about scale realism and fun. Loading it up with sand or small rocks and watching it dump never gets old.
The Presence
On the shelf or the workbench, the Mammoth Dump Truck is an absolute attention-grabber. Its sheer size compared to regular 1/10 kits makes it stand out, and its unique look ensures it’s a conversation piece in any RC collection. Even people who aren’t into RC cars stop and go, “Whoa, what’s that?” when they see it.
Legacy and Collectability
The Mammoth Dump was never a mainstream racer or basher, so it’s relatively rare compared to buggies or touring cars from the same era. These days, it’s a collector’s gem. Finding one in good condition—or even better, unbuilt—is like striking gold. Hobbyists love it for its quirkiness, its scale realism, and the way it represents Tamiya’s willingness to make something just for the fun of it.
Final Thoughts
The Mammoth Dump Truck might not be practical, it might not be fast, and it might not be the most versatile RC ever made—but that’s not the point. It’s a showcase of what makes Tamiya special: creativity, fun, and a little bit of madness. For collectors, it’s one of those “bucket list” kits. For those lucky enough to build and run one, it’s an unforgettable RC experience.