Why the Tamiya 58299 TB Evolution III matters for shaft-driven touring
The TB Evolution series grew from early center-shaft designs into a refined family of shaft-driven touring chassis. The 58299 TB Evolution III builds on that history with targeted mechanical refinements: altered motor and battery placement, a slimmer lower carbon deck, updated driveline components, and reductions in mass. These updates prioritize improved balance, quieter drivetrain rotation, and compatibility with TRF-influenced parts.
Key mechanical revisions and goals
The motor has been shifted to the right while battery packs sit on the left to reduce driveline-induced steering torque and to stabilize throttle characteristics. Narrowing the lower carbon deck by 5 mm centralizes weight and reduces the chance of chassis rubbing in high-roll situations. The kit includes lighter differential outdrives and a redesigned center drive shaft to lower vibration and boost drivetrain efficiency. An aluminium spur adaptor and a larger spur gear are included to help reduce driveline loss.
Suspension, drivetrain, and handling
Suspension hardware is drawn from the 414MII lineage, with arms, uprights, and adjustable suspension blocks that allow precise roll-center and anti-squat/anti-dive tuning. A smooth-rotation front one-way unit follows TRF-derived practices. Removing selected bulkheads and making targeted component changes reduce weight and sharpen steering response without resorting to exotic materials or construction methods.
Recommended audience
Hobbyists who prefer a mechanically consistent, shaft-driven 4WD touring platform will find this kit appealing. Its parts compatibility and TRF-influenced design make it useful for racers and collectors who want a solid foundation for full-time 4WD touring setups.
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
Overall, the TB Evolution III focuses on drivetrain refinement, a narrower carbon lower deck, and pragmatic weight reduction. It is a good choice for tuners and hobbyists who want a dependable TRF-influenced shaft-driven touring base.
