In my opinion kits are fun and the way the hobby SHOULD be enjoyed. This is my 10th kit build (6th Associated). Ready to run has it’s place too, but I prefer a good kit now and then. It allows you to know the vehicle is built correctly and gives you a vast amount of info on how everything works on that particular model.

Enough about kits in general. I purchased this Team Associated SC104x4 from a popular online retailer. It’s usually best to support your local hobby shop, but when it came to this purchase, with a coupon code and gift card credits the deal could not be beat. As a racer on a budget, I always have to consider the bottom dollar amount. These are now sold out virtually everywhere, so if you want one I wish you luck. This is proof that 4wd Short Course is growing exponentially.

This kit has been delayed over and over without an explanation. A few things in the kit might be clues as to why it was delayed. I have a feeling there were quality control issues (getting all the parts in the boxes, etc). The fact that there were 2 packing slips in the box might be a clue..

Another strange thing and possible clue that Associated had packing issues is the slipper clutch bushing was in it’s own baggy stapled to the outside of another bag.

Before starting your build, I highly suggest reading this thread on RC Tech (or at the very least the first post): http://www.rctech.net/forum/electric-off-road/511493-sc10-4×4-build-race-modify.html There is tons of useful information and build tips. I will touch on a few here, but not all.

When you open the box, you see the body, and underneath are all the parts bags, manual, decal sheet, etc. Upon removing the bags you will notice Associated pre-built some things (I have personally never seen this done in an Associated kit). The pre-built items include the turnbuckles, shocks, differentials, and the front steering hubs. Be sure to check all of these items. I’ll elaborate at each step.

Here’s a warning regarding the manual. All of the parts are separated into lettered bags (A, B, C, etc). In a typical Associated manual the steps call out which bags certain parts come from. This is not the case in the SC10 4×4. I imagine it’s because the manual was rushed. However, the manual DOES follow the bag order.. so step 1 parts are in Bag A, etc.