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For racers building or maintaining a classic Team Associated buggy or truck, smooth rolling is everything. JConcepts has released a new Radial NMB bearing set specifically designed for the Team Associated RC10 and RC10T Factory Team models, giving builders a direct-fit option.

Built for the Rigors of Competitive Racing

The new kit is an 18-piece set (part #5372) containing bearings made from stainless steel and manufactured to NMB quality standards. JConcepts states these bearings are built with precise tolerances to handle the demanding conditions of national and world-class racing events. The company emphasizes that quality bearings are critical for a free-rolling drivetrain.

From the JConcepts announcement: “The bearings in an RC vehicle need to be quality, precise, and durable enough to stand up to the rigorous demands of national and world class racing events.”

A Winning Pedigree

JConcepts notes that these Radial bearings are the same type of components used by top-tier professional racers. According to the company, the bearings are used by World Champions such as Ryan Maifield and Spencer Rivkin. The statement also notes that top racers will traditionally add a few drops of #8120 RM2 bearing oil (available separately) to each side of the bearing prior to use.

Pricing and Part Details

The JConcepts Radial NMB bearing set for the RC10 and RC10T Factory Team carries a retail price of $60.00, with a MAP (Minimum Advertised Price) of $51.00. The kit’s UPC code is 845937041685. For those working on other platforms, JConcepts offers a wide variety of similar Radial bearing sets, including sets for the Team Associated RC10B7 and Schumacher Cat PB models. The RC10B7 set is a 28-piece configuration (part #5137), while the Schumacher Cat PB set covers twenty-six pieces.

A Drop-in Option for a Classic Platform

For builders restoring a vintage RC10 or tuning up a Factory Team truck, the new JConcepts kit offers a model-specific solution. The 18-piece set is designed to fit the chassis requirements of the Team Associated RC10 | RC10T Factory Team platform. JConcepts describes the Radial bearings as being “packed with care, backed with racing heritage, customer support, and RC dedication.”

The release notes that owners can visit JConcepts.net for more information. The company produces a range of Radial bearing kits for different RC vehicle demands, all built with NMB bearing quality and stainless steel materials.

The RC10T Legacy

The RC10T platform itself has deep roots in RC racing history. Team Associated’s RC10T Classic Kit, released as part of the company’s 60th anniversary, is a faithful recreation of the iconic RC10T from 1991. That original truck debuted at the 1991 Florida Winter Championships, where Cliff Lett took first place and Butch Kloebber took second. The RC10T was built on the engineering of the 2-time World Champion RC10, sharing the alloy monocoque tub, Stealth A.T.C. transmission, and racing shocks of that legendary buggy. The truck was designed with a long wheelbase and super wide track to optimize Truck Class regulations.

Bearings and the Broader JConcepts Line

JConcepts offers Radial NMB bearing sets across multiple RC platforms. The RC10B7 set (part #5137) is listed as in stock on the JConcepts website and is a direct fit for the Team Associated RC10B7 | RC10B7D models. All sets in the line share the same core features: NMB quality and construction, stainless steel material, and precise tolerances. The company positions these bearings as suitable for restoration projects or competitive racing, with the stainless steel construction intended to ensure long-term durability and resistance to wear or corrosion.

Minichamps has rolled out its Week 35 lineup, and it’s a celebration of modern racing victories. The headliner is a 1:18 scale metal model of the BMW M4 GT3 Evo that carried ROWE Racing to overall victory at the 2025 24 Hours of Nürburgring. This is the kind of release that makes collectors of endurance racing die-casts sit up and take notice.

The Big Catch: ROWE’s Nürburgring Champion

The featured model is a fully opening 1:18 replica of the #98 BMW M4 GT3 Evo as driven by Augusto Farfus, Jesse Krohn, Raffaele Marciello, and Kelvin van der Linde – the quartet that secured BMW’s 21st overall win at the Nordschleife. The livery matches the ROWE RACING car that came from 17th on the grid to claim the top step after a controversial penalty to the leading Manthey Porsche.

For context, the 2025 race was a thriller. The #98 BMW started deep in the field after missing the top qualifying session, but Farfus made a blistering start, climbing into the top ten within the first lap. A two-hour-plus red flag for a power outage didn’t slow the team’s momentum. Van der Linde later stormed through the pack, and the quartet kept the car in contention through the night. The decisive moment came when the Manthey Porsche was penalized over a collision with a GT4 car, handing the win to ROWE. Van der Linde crossed the line second on track but took the victory after the stewards’ ruling.

“On Thursday, it looked completely different for us,” said ROWE Racing team boss Hans-Peter Naundorf. “But of course, you always want to win. Today, the car won, but the team that made the fewest mistakes. That was us, and we are proud of that.”

The win was BMW’s first at the Nürburgring since 2020 and came in front of a record crowd of 280,000 spectators. Farfus called it “the toughest race in the world” after scoring his second Nordschleife win, 15 years after his first. The new BMW M2 Racing also celebrated a class victory in the SP 3T class, rounding out a successful weekend for BMW M Motorsport.

1:43 Formula 1 Trio

Alongside the 1:18 BMW, Minichamps is also releasing three 1:43 scale F1 models. Two come from the McLaren Formula 1 Team – the MCL39 driven by Lando Norris to victory at the 2025 Mexican Grand Prix, and the car of Oscar Piastri from the same event. The third is a Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 W15 E Performance as raced by Lewis Hamilton at the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix – his final race with the team. That model includes a driver figurine.

Collector’s Takeaways

For die-cast collectors, this batch offers a mix of endurance and single-seater history. The BMW M4 GT3 Evo is a particularly significant piece because it captures a dramatic, come-from-behind win that added to BMW’s record tally at the Nürburgring. The F1 models, meanwhile, commemorate specific race moments: Norris’s Mexican GP victory and Hamilton’s farewell to Mercedes.

Product numbers are as follows: the 1:18 BMW M4 GT3 Evo is 110252098, the Norris McLaren is 537256204, the Piastri McLaren is 537256281, and the Hamilton Mercedes is 410242444. No pricing was announced, but the models are available now through Minichamps dealers.

RC racers chasing that extra edge on smooth tracks and hot-weather setups have a new tuning option from Schelle Racing Innovations. The company has released a thicker version of its popular “Fat Boys” shock pistons, plus a matching nickel-plated front spring designed to sharpen steering response.

Bigger, Thicker, Tougher

The new 16mm 2.7H Fat Boys pistons measure 2.7mm thick — a noticeable bump over the previous 2.5mm profile. The added thickness reduces blow-by and forces oil through the valve holes, creating more pack on hard landings and high-speed compressions. Schelle is offering the pistons in three drill configurations: 5 hole, 6 hole, and 8 hole, letting racers fine-tune damping for different grip levels and track conditions.

According to the company, the 2.7H version is ideal for “smoother tracks, big jump landings, and especially beneficial for hot weather.” The pistons are built as a custom spec design at MIP in Covina, California, and are not available anywhere else. They come in two hardware color options: Black for AE, Tekno, Mugen, Kyosho, and Xray vehicles, or Gold for TLR, HB, and Sworks chassis. Each package includes tuning notes, oil recommendations, build instructions, and a decal.

A New Front Spring for Better Feel

Alongside the pistons, Schelle introduced a 16mm Nickel Plated Red Front Spring (9.0 coil) with a rate of 4.7. The spring uses 1.6D wire and is 68mm shorter than standard, which the company says improves steering feel around neutral. It’s aimed at higher-traction conditions where drivers want more front-end response without sacrificing stability.

The spring is sold either as a set of four (two front, two rear, part number SCH1545-4) for $32.00, or as a pair of red 9.0 coils (part number SCH1543-3) for $8.00 for existing customers who already have a matching set.

Pricing and Availability

All three piston variants — the 5-hole standard (SCH1551-STD), 6-hole (SCH1550-6), and 8-hole (SCH1550-8) — are priced at $48.00 each for a complete set with hardware. The complete spring set runs $32.00, and the single pair is $8.00. Products are available now through the Schelle Racing website.

Background: A Growing Line

Schelle Racing Innovations, owned by veteran vehicle engineer Kurt Wenger, has been expanding its Fat Boys piston line since 2024. The original 13mm Fat Boys debuted in August 2024 for Team Associated 13mm shocks, and the 16mm XTR pistons with MIP Bypass1 followed in December 2024. The new 2.7H version marks the next step, adding a thicker profile to the family for racers who need more damping control in specific conditions.

For RC buggy and truggy drivers who spend weekends on polished indoor tracks or outdoor surfaces in the summer heat, the latest Schelle offering gives one more variable to dial in. The pistons and springs are listed on the Schelle Racing website with immediate availability.

Vanquish Products has just added a new licensed option to its tire lineup, releasing the 2.2-inch Toyo Open Country R/T PRO model tires. Built specifically for rock crawlers, these replica tires bring a full-size off-road legend down to scale.

The new tires are officially licensed by Toyo Tires and faithfully reproduce the aggressive tread pattern of the full-size Open Country R/T PRO, a rugged-terrain hybrid tire. The real-world version is a popular upgrade for trucks and SUVs, and Vanquish has now made it available for the RC crowd.

Two Rubber Compounds for Different Rigs

Vanquish is offering the tires in two distinct rubber compounds: Super Soft Red and Soft White. According to the company’s product page, the Super Soft Red compound is “our stickiest / softest compound,” recommended for lighter-weight rigs. It is designed for dry, wet, and slick conditions with high traction performance, though the soft compound increases lug deflection.

The Soft White compound, meanwhile, is suggested for heavier rigs. The product page describes it as “soft and sticky with more lug support,” making it suitable for dry, muddy, or higher-speed applications.

Specs and Pricing

Each tire measures 5.25 inches tall, 1.75 inches wide, and has a 2.2-inch wheel bead diameter. This differs from the 4.9-inch height figure initially reported by Big Squid RC; the official Vanquish Products listing specifies 5.25 inches. The tires come with medium-density open-cell foam inserts and fit standard 2.2-inch rock crawler wheels.

The tires are sold in pairs, with each package including two tires and two foam inserts. The suggested retail price is $38. The part numbers listed on the Vanquish Products site are VPS10109 for the Super Soft Red compound and VPS10165 for the Soft White compound, while the primary article lists a different part number, #VPS10168. Wheels are not included.

Real-World Pedigree

The full-size Toyo Open Country R/T PRO is a serious on-/off-road rugged-terrain hybrid tire. It features a rugged hybrid tread design with omni-directional-shaped blocks, a three-ply polyester sidewall, and massive lugs. The real-world tire carries a 45,000-mile treadwear warranty and is offered with a trial program: buyers can try the tires for 500 miles or 45 days and return them if not satisfied.

Toyo lists popular fitments for the full-size tire across vehicles from Chevrolet, Ford, INEOS, Jeep, Land Rover, Nissan, Ram, and Toyota — covering trucks and SUVs. The Open Country R/T Pro is available in numerous sizes for both factory-original and heavily modified vehicles.

Availability

Vanquish Products has begun selling the 2.2-inch Toyo Open Country R/T PRO tires through its own website. Buyers can choose between the Super Soft Red compound (part number VPS10109) or the Soft White compound (part number VPS10165), both at $38 per pair.

XRAY has expanded the front-end tuning options for its NT1 platform with two new CNC-machined carbon shock towers, both aimed at the NT1 ’26.

The new parts are #332086 Carbon Shock Tower Front – 2 Positions – Split and #332087 Carbon Shock Tower Front – 2 Positions – Wave. XRAY describes them as authentic option parts for the car, and both are designed to fit the NT1’s aluminum bulkheads.

Carbon Towers With a Choice of Flex

The pair is CNC-machined from carbon material that XRAY rates as top-grade, with a listed thickness of 2.5mm. Both towers include multiple upper shock mounting positions, giving racers more than one place to mount the top of the shock while the tower itself changes how the front end flexes.

The Wave version uses a wave profile that XRAY says delivers more front flex, making the car more forgiving and easier to handle, while adding mid-corner steering. The Split version is the second new option, and LiveRC notes that both new towers offer more flex than the solid one-piece kit design.

XRAY’s announcement lists three different shock tower alternatives with different flex characteristics, all made from premium carbon material. The two new parts join that group as the latest choices. The new parts are presented as alternatives to the solid one-piece kit design, giving racers added choice in front flex.

Part Numbers for the Parts Shelf

The two front towers are identified on XRAY’s option-parts list as:

• #332086 – Carbon Shock Tower Front – 2 Positions – Split
• #332087 – Carbon Shock Tower Front – 2 Positions – Wave

Both carry the “2 Positions” label, referring to the multiple upper shock mounting positions, and both are intended for the NT1 ’26. The company’s announcement emphasizes that the towers are CNC-machined and made from top-grade carbon, with the design goal of changing the front end’s flex characteristics.

More Front-End Parts Around the Same Time

The NT1 towers were not the only front-end tuning part to show up in XRAY’s recent updates. The official feed also listed a new wider carbon front shock tower for the XB2, with additional outer shock mounting positions for more setup possibilities. There were also new carbon rear lower arm plates for the XB8 and GT, designed to increase rear suspension stiffness in high-traction conditions.

XRAY’s recent product stream also included a new X4F 1.5mm aluminum flex chassis developed for high-traction conditions and 77mm rear universal drive shafts for the XB2/XB4 made from HUDY Spring Steel. These posts appeared alongside the NT1 shock tower item in the same official feed.

On the racing side, the same feed included the X4 and X4F being named 2026 European Champions, Stefan Schulz’s X4F European Championship winning set-up sheet, and statistics from the 2026 EFRA European Championship 1/10 electric on-road in Luxembourg. Team drivers were confirmed for the EFRA European Championship B in Portugal, and XP10 took a win at the RC LeMans Race in Germany. The list also showed Bortoli joining the XRAY Development Team, Maximilian Unterschütz joining XRAY, and junior championship results for the XB2/XB4 and XB8 in Norway and Germany.

Where To Find the New NT1 Towers

Drivers who want to try the new towers will need to look for #332086 and #332087 in XRAY’s option-parts lineup. The company posted the full announcement on its website at TeamXRAY.com, and the official XRAY news list dates the NT1 shock tower item to Aug. 12.

Team Powers has a new cooling upgrade on the way for RC enthusiasts. The company is preparing 30mm and 40mm hemicycle fan shrouds, and the announcement, shared through RC Car Action on Aug. 17, 2026, labels the parts “Coming Soon.”

The item was published on RC Car Action, whose page header describes the site as RC Cars & Trucks. The announcement is short and product-focused: Team Powers is pitching the shrouds as a cooling-system upgrade, with a direct link to TeamPowersUSA.com.

Team Powers’ announcement puts it this way:

Upgrade your cooling system with our latest high-performance shrouds, engineered for maximum efficiency and durability.

What Team Powers is promising

The announcement highlights three areas: heat resistance, airflow, and fit.

Heat resistance. The shrouds use a premium thermoplastic that Team Powers says prevents warping under high temperatures. Since the shroud’s job is to direct airflow for motor cooling, holding its shape is a key part of the design.

Maximized airflow. The hemicycle shape is designed to distribute air evenly, and Team Powers says that helps lower motor temperatures fast.

Universal fit. The shroud is not tied to a single fan model. Team Powers says the hemicycle design fits most standard 30mm and 40mm fans, so the 30mm version targets the smaller size and the 40mm version targets the larger one.

A fan-first design

These are shrouds, not replacement fans. A user keeps an existing standard-size fan and adds the Team Powers piece around it. According to the company, the shroud then directs that airflow over the motor for more efficient cooling. The release also carries a link to TeamPowersUSA.com for anyone following the product.

The product title in the announcement is “Coming Soon: New 30mm & 40mm Hemicycle Fan Shrouds!” That wording, together with the link, is the main release detail in the notice.

The wider cooling market

Fan shrouds sit inside a bigger RC cooling category. Retailers like digital-rc carry dedicated collections of high-speed fans for remote control vehicles, with product descriptions noting durable construction, easy installation, and compatibility with various RC models. digital-rc says its fans are aimed at competitive racing and recreational flying, keeping equipment at peak performance.

The 30/40mm shroud format is already on the market elsewhere. DRC Pro Shop lists a Rossing Designs 30/40mm fan shroud described as optimizing motor can coverage to force air into motor cutouts through the stator and around the rotor. That part is lightweight, made from a proprietary super durable material, designed and printed in Texas, USA, and sold one per listing. The listing also says it will fit popular TC platforms and notes that a premium box is available.

Team Powers products already have a retail presence, too. RAB Hobbies, an Australian outlet that says it has been active in RC aircraft and RC cars for 40 years, lists Team Powers among the brands it supplies in both retail and trade. The retailer’s supplier list includes hobby names such as DUBRO, BALSA, FLYSKY, FMS, TDK TYRE LUBRICANTS, BLACKHORSE, and TEAM POWERS; other names on the list are SP-1, XRAY, HIRO SEIKO, TEAM TITAN, BLITZ, CORALLY, SKYRC, TOOLKITRC, GT POWER, HOBBYWING, and DANCING WINGS. RAB Hobbies says it is a current Australian agent for the brands it lists and that it caters to everyone from beginners to club professionals.

Where the announcement leaves things

The new shrouds are officially in “Coming Soon” territory. Team Powers is directing enthusiasts to TeamPowersUSA.com for further details.

Shelby Collectibles is rolling out a new 1:18 scale die-cast replica of the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500, and it’s designed to give collectors a lot of metal for their money. The model features an opening body that reveals the engine bay and rear compartment, putting it a step above many entry-level releases.

Two Colorways, One Price

The new GT500 arrives in two striking liveries: Deep Impact Blue with Red stripes and Black with Orange stripes. Both versions carry the same suggested retail price of $79.95 US. The replica is aimed at collectors looking for an affordable entry point, but it still includes full access to the engine and rear — a detail that goes beyond what is typical for some other budget-focused die-cast lines. The die-cast is made from metal and will be sold under product numbers SC18012 (Deep Impact Blue/Red stripes) and SC18013 (Black/Orange stripes). Shelby Collectibles has scheduled delivery for the third quarter of 2026, so the model is expected to start shipping in the coming months.

A Wider Shelby Die-Cast World

While this 1:18 model is the headline news, the Shelby die-cast universe extends much further. The official Shelby store, founded by Carroll Shelby himself, offers a broad range of die-cast collectibles in sizes from 1:12 down to 1:38. Popular models include the 1966 Ford GT40 and the 2020 Shelby GT500. The larger models feature detailed engines, interiors, and chassis with opening doors, hoods, and trunks. According to the official store, the detailing on the dash, engine, and seats is “impeccably accurate.” The store emphasizes that its die-casts are made with a focus on fine details, catering to collectors who expect a certain level of quality. The smaller models still have working doors and fine detailing, along with pull-back-and-go action.

Among the most popular die-cast collectibles in the official store are the 1:18 1966 Le Mans Gulf Blue Ford GT40, the 1:18 1966 Gulf Blue Ford GT40 Le Mans, the 1:18 1965 Pink Cobra 427 SC, and the 1:18 1968 Silver Shelby Mustang GT500KR. These models span Shelby history from the 1960s to the near-present. The official store’s lineup includes a 1:18 2020 Ford Shelby GT500 diecast, showing the continued interest in modern Shelby models. The official store also sells a variety of other merchandise, including apparel, keychains, jewelry, and wall art, but the die-cast models remain a core offering.

Beyond the official store, other retailers such as Collectable Diecast offer a selection of Shelby die-cast collectibles. The website describes its inventory as “top shelf diecast collectibles” manufactured for the elite and dedicated collector.

In the smaller scale segment, other manufacturers have also released Shelby Mustang GT500 die-casts. For example, Pop Race has produced a 1:64 scale version in its “Dark Chrome Series.” That model is described as having authentic detail, true-to-scale detail, and real rubber tires. It includes an opening hood and trunk, a detailed interior and exterior, and is officially licensed. The car is made of die-cast metal on a die-cast metal chassis, and comes in the manufacturer’s original unopened packaging. The car measures approximately 2.75 inches long and is available through retailers like Target and Diecast Models Wholesale. Target lists the product as a choking hazard for children under 3 years old and notes it is eligible for registries and wish lists. Diecast Models Wholesale, the seller on Target, also offers the model directly.

For collectors who prefer the larger 1:18 scale, the new Shelby Collectibles release offers opening features at an accessible price point. The opening body design allows for closer inspection of the engine bay and rear storage area.

The Shelby Collectibles 1:18 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 die-cast is scheduled to ship in Q3 2026 at a suggested retail price of $79.95 US, with product numbers SC18012 and SC18013. Two color options — Deep Impact Blue with Red stripes and Black with Orange stripes — are available.

ATS is adding two new colors to its 1:64 Maserati MC20 lineup. Yellow and Red versions of the 1:64 scale MC20 are scheduled to arrive in November 2026, with the product numbers ATS882302 and ATS882303.

The notice, posted on August 20, 2026, describes the releases as additional colors for the existing 1:64 ATS Maserati MC20 casting. Diecastsociety’s short post, headlined “New Colours ATS Maserati MC 20,” was filed by its DS Team. The post keeps the focus on the exterior finishes and the shared release window: one yellow body and one red body, both due in November.

The MC20 is already a 1:64 regular

ATS is not alone in putting the MC20 in miniature form. BBR has a yellow 1:64 MC20 listed on Amazon.co.jp under the Giallo Genio name. The listing’s full title identifies it as a finished product, and the item description calls it both a 1/64 scale mini car and a diecast model.

The BBR page also describes the real MC20 as a new-generation supercar introduced in 2020. It points to the 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbo engine and cockpit details, both reproduced in the mid-engine layout. For buyers, the casting is a static display piece: the listing states it does not operate, light up, or use batteries or fuel. It also notes that batteries, fuel, and paint are not included.

Physical specs are listed too. The model is made of metal, with the item’s listed color given as multicolor. It weighs 0.09 kg and measures 70D x 20W x 30H mm. The brand is listed as bbrtoys, and the Amazon.co.jp listing currently shows zero customer reviews.

CCA has a red 1:64 MC20 sold through Mini Diecast. The page, titled “CCA – Maserati MC20 (Red),” lists the model under the Diecast Collectible Model category. It uses diecast metal with plastic parts and is credited to CCA. The product description says the model is inspired by Maserati’s flagship mid-engine supercar and highlights its low stance, smooth aerodynamic body lines, and signature Maserati styling elements. The red finish is described as vibrant, and the page presents the casting as a detailed collectible, with realistic proportions and clean finishing suited to collectors and enthusiasts. It also connects the miniature to Maserati’s return to high-performance engineering.

Mini Diecast’s listing also includes practical order details. It lists secure packing, quick shipping, and all-India delivery, with dispatch in 1-4 business days excluding Sundays and public holidays. Delivery takes 3-7 days depending on location, and payments go through the Razorpay gateway. The retailer adds that returns are accepted only for incorrect items, with claims needing a clear, continuous unboxing video; minor card bends and packaging variations are not treated as defects. It also says all items are genuine and sold transparently as collectibles, and that some prices can differ from printed MRPs because of collector demand, rarity, sourcing costs, and limited availability.

Two SKUs, two bright ATS options

The ATS announcement is about adding color to the company’s existing MC20 casting. The two new items are identified by the catalog numbers ATS882302 and ATS882303. Both finishes are tied to the same November 2026 release window.

The ATS pair will join a small-scale MC20 field that already includes BBR’s yellow Giallo Genio and CCA’s red model. The confirmed details for the ATS release are the two catalog numbers and the November 2026 timing.

MIP has introduced a new shop essential for RC builders who wrestle with hardware in cramped chassis compartments. The #9860 – MIP 1/4″ Turnbuckle Wrench Gen 2 is a precision-machined steel tool built specifically for reaching 1/4-inch nuts and turnbuckles in recessed and hard-to-access areas. It carries a street price of $19 and is available now.

Engineered for Tight Quarters

MIP says the Gen 2 wrench is designed for working with 1/4-inch nuts and turnbuckles in tight or hard-to-reach areas where traditional wrenches struggle. The slim-profile body and angled head provide improved access to recessed and confined hardware, making it a strong candidate for both vintage and modern RC builds. The wrench is constructed from precision-machined steel with tolerances held within ±0.001″ (~0.03 mm). The angled tool head improves ergonomics and access during assembly, maintenance, and tuning. A compact MIP amber handle features a laser-engraved size marking and a color-coded identification ring, so you can quickly grab the right tool from a crowded toolbox. MIP describes the tool as heavy-duty and says it is manufactured, assembled, and packaged 100% in the USA.

Vehicle Compatibility

The #9860 is especially useful for the MIP Legend 4-10 Kit and a range of vintage Team Associated RC10 platforms. The compatible models include:

• Team Associated RC10
• RC10 Team Car
• RC10 Championship Edition
• RC10 Worlds Car
• RC10 Jay Halsey Edition

The wrench also works with other vintage and re-release RC vehicles that use compatible 1/4-inch hardware and turnbuckles. That broad compatibility makes it a practical addition for anyone working on classic buggies or re-releases that rely on that hardware standard.

Gen 2 Line Features

The turnbuckle wrench is part of MIP’s Gen 2 tool family, which introduces laser-etched size markings and color-coded rings across the range for instant identification. MIP says the laser-engraved markings are clear, crisp, and impossible to miss. The line is designed to create a cohesive look and feel across the entire tool collection, reinforcing the iconic amber handle identity. Other Gen 2 releases, such as the 3/32″ Ball Hex Driver Wrench, share the same design cues, allowing hobbyists to build a matching set of shop essentials. The core attributes—rock-solid construction, precise tolerances, and uncompromising quality—carry over from earlier generations, according to MIP. Each tool is assembled by hand.

Manufacturing and Quality

Every #9860 is manufactured, assembled, and packaged in the United States. MIP has been producing precision tools for over 20 years, and the company’s tools are used by world champions and hobbyists around the world. The steel construction is built for strength and durability, and the angled head provides better ergonomics when working in confined spaces. The package includes a single wrench. The tool is designed for assembly, maintenance, and tuning of RC vehicles, particularly those with 1/4-inch turnbuckles. MIP states that the wrench delivers the precision, durability, and race-proven performance that racers and hobbyists have trusted from the brand for decades.

Pricing and Availability

The MIP 1/4″ Turnbuckle Wrench Gen 2 (part #9860) is priced at $19 and is available directly from MIP and through retailers such as Motion RC. It is available now.

If you’ve been pushing your G-Force XTRADA 4WD buggy with a high-power brushless motor, the drivetrain is worth a second look. The Japanese hobby brand has just released an aluminum center pulley set (part #GOP171) designed to stiffen the drivetrain and sharpen throttle response.

Stiffer Drivetrain for Better Power Delivery

The new pulley is machined from aluminum for high precision and high rigidity. According to the manufacturer, increasing drivetrain stiffness results in smoother and more direct power transmission. The upgrade also improves throttle response for a sharper driving feel. G-Force states the part offers high durability to withstand the immense power of high-power motors. The component features a sleek gunmetal anodized finish. The set is priced at ¥1,800.

The XTRADA 4WD Buggy: A Neo-Classic Platform

The center pulley is a direct upgrade for G-Force’s own XTRADA 4WD Buggy Kit (product number GK050), a 1/10-scale off-road platform. The XTRADA kit was released in early September 2025 and carries a list price of ¥45,000 (before tax). G-Force describes the buggy as a “neo-classic” design, calling it a nostalgic throwback for veteran RC drivers and a fresh discovery for newer enthusiasts.

The platform uses a 2-belt drive 4WD system paired with a rear mid-motor layout and a vertically mounted battery. This configuration is intended to deliver strong traction and an ideal weight balance, combining controllable steering with strong rear stability. The buggy’s original body and wing were supervised by RC legend Masami Hirosaka, featuring a rear-shifted cabin and pronounced side volume.

Factory equipment on the kit includes big bore oil dampers (airation type), front and rear long-span suspension arms, a slipper clutch with separate spur gear, a fully covered drivetrain for dust protection, and full ball bearings. The chassis uses a front universal drive shaft setup, turnbuckles for alignment adjustment, and 2.2-inch wheels with six-angle hex hubs. The XTRADA has a wheelbase of 285.5mm, measures 429.5mm in overall length, and weighs approximately 1135g without electronics. The stock center pulley set (part GSP064) is listed at ¥700 on G-Force’s official parts list.

Pricing and Availability

The GOP171 aluminum center pulley set is priced at ¥1,800. In the United States, G-Force products are distributed by Hobby Authority Distribution. The aluminum pulley is listed alongside the XTRADA’s extensive range of optional upgrade parts. Those optional parts include aluminum wheel hubs, Teflon-coated aluminum big bore damper sets, a titanium turnbuckle set, a titanium coat damper shaft set, and a carpet edition spring set. The full optional parts list also includes replacement items such as front and rear gear box sets, diff gear and O-ring sets, a main chassis, suspension arms, hub carriers, knuckles, body and decal sets, wheels, tires, and screw sets. All items are listed on G-Force’s official website with JAN codes and individual pricing.

More on the XTRADA

G-Force also offers a wide range of related electronics and accessories for the XTRADA, including the BLC50 brushless ESC, Neo Fast brushless motors, the GDS-0709L and GDS-0713L low profile digital servos, and BULLET EXTRA LiPo batteries. The official XTRADA product page details the complete specifications of the kit and includes a gallery of images. The English-language version of the product page notes that the buggy is intended for off-road driving, with a layout that G-Force describes as non-negotiable for the application.