Tamiya 58299 TB Evolution III: a refined TB-series shaft-driven touring chassis
The TB Evolution family traces ideas from early center-shaft layouts into a current shaft-driven touring platform. The 58299 TB Evolution III continues that lineage with practical mechanical updates: motor and battery relocation, a slimmer lower carbon deck, reworked driveline components, and deliberate mass trimming. These changes emphasize chassis balance, reduced drivetrain vibration, and retention of proven TRF-derived parts.
Mechanical updates and design intent
The motor is mounted to the right with battery packs positioned to the left to reduce driveline-induced steering disturbance and to stabilize throttle response. The lower carbon deck has been narrowed by 5 mm to centralize mass and to limit chassis contact during aggressive cornering. New lightweight differential outdrives and a revised center drive shaft reduce vibration and increase drivetrain efficiency. An aluminum spur gear adaptor combined with a larger spur gear helps cut driveline losses.
Suspension and drivetrain construction
Suspension pieces derive from the 414MII lineage, including arms, uprights, and adjustable blocks that give precise roll-center and anti-squat/anti-dive adjustment. The front one-way unit follows smooth-rotation design approaches used on related TRF-derived models. Removing select bulkheads and making targeted component changes produce measurable weight savings and a livelier steering feel without exotic construction techniques.
Intended users
This kit suits builders who want a durable, shaft-driven 4WD touring platform that blends carbon and alloy components. Its parts compatibility with TRF-style hardware makes it relevant for hobbyists focused on full-time 4WD touring setups and for collectors preferring the TB-series architecture.
Specifications
- Chassis Type: TB Evolution III
- Scale: 1/10
- Total Length: 366 mm
- Total Width: 189 mm
- Clearance: 5 mm
- Weight Fully-Equipped: 1,440 g
- Wheelbase: 257 mm
- Tread F/R: 163 mm
- Chassis Material: Carbon
- Chassis Shape: Double-deck frame
- Steering Tie Rod: 3 part
- Suspension: Front and rear double wishbone
- Caster Angle F/R: 4deg / 0deg
- Camber Angle F/R: adjustable
- Toe Angle F/R: adjustable / 2deg
- Skid Angle F/R: 1.6deg / 0deg
- Damper: F/R TRF Super Low Friction Dampers
- Drive Train: Shaft Driven Full Time 4WD
- Gear Ratio: 7.34:1, 6.88:1
- Diff. Gear System: F/R One-Way / Ball-Diff
- Tire Width: F/R 24 mm
- Tire Diameter: F/R 64 mm
- Electronic Speed Control (ESC): Not Included
The TB Evolution III kit delivers targeted refinements to the TB-platform: smoother drivetrain rotation, a narrowed lower carbon deck, and measurable weight savings. It is a strong option for hobbyists who prefer TRF-influenced shaft-driven touring mechanics and who value consistent parts compatibility.
