The TXT-1 is the third generation Tamiya monster truck following the 58065 Clod Buster from 1987 and the 58232
Juggernaut from 1999. The Juggernaut was replaced with a second
version only a year later due to some significant design issues, but
that apparently didn't resolve its reputation with consumers so the 58280
TXT-1 arrived in 2001. It shares many design aspects with the
Juggernaut but has been differentiated enough to stand out to the
market. The axles and transmission are from the Juggernaut, and
the
hubs and tires are from the Clod Buster. The aluminum side
plates, steering system, and cantilevered suspension are new. The
original Clod had axle mounted motors which are now inboard, but the
steering has gone the other way. The prior chassis mounted
steering servo is now located on the axle.This is an accurate monster truck which is built much like the real thing. It has solid axles front and rear, four wheel drive, four wheel steering (optional), four link suspension, and sits on four enormous tractor tires. The central transmission is driven by dual 540 silver can motors, but there is an additional gearbox on each axle. This is one of the last models to use a mechanical speed controller. The kit comes with a pre-painted body as well as a clear body.
I was amazed at how complex the build of this model was. It's just some axles and links, right? The box has a massive pile of hardware and moving parts making it a real joy to build. I loved every minute of it. I love driving it as well. I replaced the MSC with a dual motor ESC and it drives like a dream: stable, powerful, and surprisingly agile. It has a much better appearance than the later TXT-2, in my opinion.
Update: This model was destroyed in the 2022 fire. It has not been replaced.
 Page 1: Assembly |
 Page 2: Final Photos |