Associated RC18T

The Associated RC18T is a , ready-to-run electric stadium truck made by Associated Electrics of Costa Mesa, California. A mechanically similar monster truck version with slightly different bodywork similar to the 1:8 scale, nitromethane-powered Associated "Monster GT" and all-terrain tires with unique "AE" tread pattern is sold as the RC18MT.

Both ready-to-run versions feature four wheel drive, fifteen sealed ball bearings, Associated "XPS" micro electronic speed control and oil-filled shock absorbers. A 370-series motor is standard on the T and MT. A full-sized Associated "XP2" two-channel pistol grip radio is standard as well.

Though both models are race-ready as delivered, a more serious version is available. This is the "Factory Team" RC18T, available in kit form only, intended as a pure competition vehicle and packed with "Team Associated" upgrades as standard. Associated lists these upgrades as:

*Blue-anodized aluminum "dogbone" drive axles
*Blue aluminum finned motor mount
*Carbide differential balls
*Woven graphite battery strap
*Blue aluminum threaded shock absorbers
*Blue aluminum wheel nuts
*Titanium turnbuckles
*Extra servo saver for use with Hitec brand radio systems
*12-tooth, 13-tooth and 14-tooth motor pinion gears to assist in tuning for different track conditions and motors

The popularity of 1:18 scale monster trucks spurred by the development of the Team Losi Mini-T, the original mini-monster, means that aftermarket parts are being introduced on a constant basis including "The Mamba," a brushless, 180 series drive motor and speed control available in four different levels of power output from Castle Creations of Wellville, Kansas, USA. The "Competition X" system triples the top speed of any of these vehicles to nearly 60 mph (100 km/h) depending on gearing and choice of battery.

Chassis specifications (18T/18MT)

*Length: 218 mm/225 mm
*Width: 182 mm/188 mm
*Wheelbase: 154 mm
*Internal gear ratio: 2.5:1
*Weight (with body):: 540 g
*Four wheel drive transfer system: Shaft drive via blue-anodized aluminum drive shaft

External links

* [http://www.teamassociated.com/shusting/CatalogHub/kitspecs_18t/kit18t.htm Official RC18T website]

* [http://www.teamassociated.com/shusting/CatalogHub/kitspecs_18mt/kit18mt.htm Official RC18MT website]