{"id":7505,"date":"2025-11-30T12:56:20","date_gmt":"2025-11-30T12:56:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/rcpress.com\/wp\/?p=7505"},"modified":"2025-12-03T22:42:34","modified_gmt":"2025-12-03T22:42:34","slug":"tt01-simple-truck-mod","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/rcpress.com\/wp\/?p=7505","title":{"rendered":"Is It a Good Idea to Modify the Tamiya TT-01 to Run as a Truck?"},"content":{"rendered":"

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If you\u2019ve spent time in the RC hobby, you already know the Tamiya TT-01 is one of the most popular entry-level touring car chassis out there. It\u2019s cheap, durable, and easy to work on\u2014not to mention there are tons of upgrade parts for it. But what if you want to turn your TT-01 into something a little different\u2026 like a truck?<\/p>\n

The short answer: Yes, you can<\/em> run a TT-01 as a truck<\/strong>, but there are a few things to think about before diving in.<\/p>\n

1. Ground Clearance Is Your Biggest Challenge<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The TT-01 is low to the ground because it\u2019s designed for on-road driving. If you want a truck look or want to run it on rougher surfaces, you\u2019ll need:<\/p>\n

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    Longer shocks or shock extenders<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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    Taller tires<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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    Possibly a small lift kit or custom spacers<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    These mods give you the height you need but can slightly change the handling.<\/p>\n

    2. Bigger Tires Add Stress<\/strong><\/h3>\n

    Truck-sized tires look cool, but they\u2019re heavier and put more strain on:<\/p>\n

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      The motor<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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      Pinion and spur gears<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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      The drivetrain<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

      If you upgrade to bigger tires, it\u2019s smart to:<\/p>\n

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        Gear down a bit<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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        Use a stronger motor<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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        Keep an eye on motor temps<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

        3. Body Mounting Needs Some Creativity<\/strong><\/h3>\n

        Putting a truck body on a TT-01 usually means adjusting (or replacing) body posts. Most people use:<\/p>\n

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          Longer posts<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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          Aftermarket adjustable posts<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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          Or custom-cut pieces<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

          It\u2019s not hard, but it\u2019s not a direct bolt-on either.<\/p>\n

          4. Handling Will Change<\/strong><\/h3>\n

          A TT-01 with truck wheels and a high body won\u2019t corner like it used to. Expect:<\/p>\n

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            More body roll<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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            Slightly slower acceleration<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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            A higher center of gravity<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

            If you plan to bash and play around, this isn\u2019t a problem. But if you race, it might not be ideal.<\/p>\n

            5. It\u2019s a Fun Project<\/strong><\/h3>\n

            At the end of the day, the TT-01 is one of the best platforms for experimenting. It\u2019s cheap, simple, and forgiving. If your goal is just to have fun, build something unique, or try a scale-style street truck, then modifying a TT-01 is absolutely worth it.<\/p>\n