Tamiya DT02 vs DT03 Chassis Review - Which is Best? Plus, Hop-Up Options!

[@arronfrost2872]

Just finished a neo fighter my first ever biukd at the age of 46.I remember going into beatties in Birmingham when i was a kid a looking in awe at the tamiya kits.Took me 40 years but finally got one.loved every minute of the build and your videos have been super helpful.Thanks for the uploads 👍👍👍

[@MarkBryanRC]

Hi Arron and welcome back to the hobby! That's a coincidence 🤔 I used to visit Beatties in Birmingham at least once a week back in the day! Loved that shop and it's TV with the Tamiya adverts on a loop! Thanks so much for taking the time to comment and watching my channel. Great to hear the videos are useful 👍 All the best from Mark in Birmingham! 😎👊👍

[@andyrobinsonrc2480]

Nice video on the two chassis Mark :) if anyone’s interested there’s a few notes below. The sand viper know as the tuned spec also came with Light weight gear shafts for the gearbox where the dt03 never did. If anyone’s looking for a bit extra stability on the dt02 you can flip the front arms around to increase the wheelbase length. There was a dt02ms version of the chassis and in the kit you got alloy shocks , alloy hard turnbuckles, alloy motor mount, wide df03 rear wheels, ball differential and possibly alloy rear hub carriers and cvd drive shafts included, unfortunately a discontinued kit now. Having raced both chassis the dt02 is good in tighter tracks and on carpet/Astro tracks where dt03 is better on grass/damp grass. For racing both buggy’s need better tyres all round for. The likes of Schumacher/ballistic buggy with inserts depending on track surface. Also so adding weight up front helps kelp the front end down and the tyres in touch with the ground, about 40g/50g on a dt02 and Up to 70g /80g on the 03 more so if using much more power motors. Anyway good for thought, and great video Mark :)

[@outbackrcaustralia4895]

Great information Andy, thanks for sharing👍

[@MarkBryanRC]

Hi Andy and many, many thanks for taking the time to share your fantastic knowledge with us all, fella! I'd love to have had that MS version when it was available, sounds bloody awesome! I must try adding some weight to the front, too. Thanks again for sharing the RC love! Take care, mate! 😍🙏👌😊👍

[@andyrobinsonrc2480]

My pleasure Mark happy to help if I can

[@peteuncle2935]

The dt02 is so much more agile feeling, being shorter end wheelbase. With a quality, high speed steering servo, it feels very light, and with decent brushless, does wheelies on command. One of my dt02s does 82kmh and will flip at almost any speed with a stab of the throttle. Great video mark, you really covered the important points. I love my dt03 also, reminds me of being a kid with a 2wd Tamiya Fox bashing around, longer and more stable. You are right about them being rewarding to drive. Very good point!

[@MarkBryanRC]

Hi Pete and many thanks for the smashing comment! OMG, 82kph is awesome from a humble DT02! My DT's are nowhere near that, but the do pull great wheelies! Thanks for the input and the kind words, much appreciated my friend - have a great weekend! 🙏😉👌👍

[@theoagrc]

Great work Mark on two awesome buggies. DT03 was my first build back to the hobby in 2021 and I really enjoyed it and hopping it up. However, having now driven some DT02 buggies that chassis nips it for me!! The Sand Viper is a great value kit but the Holiday Buggy looks super retro cool! Nice work fella 🙌🏻

[@MarkBryanRC]

Hi Craig and thanks very much for the input mate! The 03 was a great way back into the hobby and I know yours runs very well indeed, as does Mini's HB!!! And as you say, it's just so damn COOL! All the best, matey! 😁👌👍

[@zid_just_zid]

Very good look on the two chassis :) There are two other variants that can be mentioned. The DT02 Nissan Titan, a stadium truck, it comes with CVAs, has a brace across the front shock tower and different tires with lots of really small spikes on dish rims. The DT03 Aqroshot, also a truck type body, CVAs and has wide onroad wheels on Stadium Blitzer/Blitzer Beetle rims. Ive put rere Sand Scorcher shells on both of the above. The DT02 has close to the correct wheelbase which i made exact with 3d printed front arms to fully correct it and also narrow it to look right. The DT03 is a bit long but as the Blitzer Beetle has a longer than Sand Scorcher wheelbase i was able to cut the chassi in the middle, take out enough and join it back together to make it correct for a Blitzer Beetle.

[@MarkBryanRC]

Hi dude and thanks for the comment and info! Yeah, I know of the Titan but haven't seen one in person, my friend Pete Wylie has one though. And the Aqroshot is a strange mixture of buggy and truck with the wrong tyres on it in my opinion! Much better with the Blitzer tyres fitted! Cool that you fitted Sand Scorcher bodies on them, very interesting. Nice work modifying those chassis, too, great stuff - cheers!

[@barrycheesemore2928]

I had a DT03 that I converted to a DT02, and apart from bracing the front shock towers the DT02 handled way better, mainly due to the shorter wheelbase. Excellent video though mate!!

[@MarkBryanRC]

Hi Barry, funny but I know of a few people that have converted the 03 into a 02! The wheelbase does make for livelier handling for sure! Thanks for the support 🙏 mate!

[@CheckYourSheds]

Another great video. The DT03 was such a surprise to me when I got mine. A really capable buggy at such a good price. It’s my go to easy runner.

[@MarkBryanRC]

Thanks very much! Couldn't agree more, the DT03 is such a cool buggy, and one I regularly take out for a spin! All the best from Mark... 😊👌👍

[@robbrennanrc]

Great comparison mate. Same with me I do like both chassis but I do seem to control the DT03 easier. Lots of great stuff for people to think about before getting either one of them.

[@MarkBryanRC]

Many thanks, dude! I know from racing with you that you get on with the 03 better, it certainly does seem to hold a line better! Yeah, I recorded too much for people to think about really, I had to edit my waffling down from a full 37 minutes! 🤣😁😉👍

[@markj711]

Great video. Something to add for people running brushed motors. There is not much cooling with the motor being well covered and even the standard 540 will get quite hot. Hence a lot of people drill holes in the plastic shroud surrounding the motor to keep temps down.

[@MarkBryanRC]

Thanks Mark! Great point about keeping the motors cool! I've heard of others doing this to the plastic surround but never tried it as yet. Many thanks for sharing the info, dude! Cheers! 🙏👌👍

[@MarkBryanRC]

Thanks for sharing the info, Jess! Definitely had this issue on my M01's, got the Tamiya heatsink plate hop-up. Cheers!

[@RCBirds]

Very cool comparison Mark. I'm still happy to be in Team 03, but I like what you done to the 02.

[@MarkBryanRC]

Thanks muchly, Dirk! Oh yes, team 03 is a great team, but I'm glad I'm in team 02, too! Cheers! 🙏😁👍

[@DeliriumElectric]

As someone who loves the look of the Astute, I was super excited when the Desert Gator came out. A few guys even built them with Astute livery and even Astute wheels. I have an Astute sticker set, but need a desert gator first haha

[@MarkBryanRC]

Great point! If you're a Tamiya fan, you gotta love an Astute! It's been a long time since I saw a Desert Gator for sale! Good luck finding one! 🤞😎👍

[@poorboysrc]

Great video, Mark. It's nice to see these two chassis' laid out side by side. I didn't know they had as many similarities as they do, very cool!

[@MarkBryanRC]

Many thanks, Fil. Yeah both chassis are great platforms to be fair and share a lot of parts. The DT03 just edges it for me though! Cheers 🍻 dude! 😎👍

[@madsrcbuggy]

This is a real proper Mark Bryan video, I enjoy these videos! I now have both of these, but this is the kind of video that would help me make my decision were I to decide between the two. In fact, when I bought my first DT-03, I watched your videos beforehand and they were really helpful. Keep this content coming, mate, very enjoyable and lots of useful info! One thing to add to your video, I have actually destroyed a DT-03 chassis and a rear shock tower, ha ha... Some day I'll make a video about that... All the best, mate!

[@MarkBryanRC]

Hi Mads and thanks for the great feedback on this video, I'm really pleased you thought it was "proper"!!! It is much appreciated especially as I know you have both of these chassis. I didn't remember you trashing your DT03 chassis though, oh dear! I hope you do make that video, I for one would be very interested to watch it! All the best to you too, mate! :))

[@James-bristol]

My favourite buggy is the holiday on the dt02 I also got the dt03 they drive completely different. Love the video

[@MarkBryanRC]

Good choice! The Holiday Buggy is definitely the coolest of all these RWD buggies! Glad you enjoyed it and many thanks for taking the time to comment - cheers! 🙏😁👍

[@soma_rc]

DT03 front shock tower does break, my nephew broke his twice already. Thanks for the thorough comparison 👍

[@MarkBryanRC]

Hi there and thanks for your input - yes I'm sure it's possible to break that shock tower, my friend must be lucky! Thanks for watching, all the best from Mark... 😁🙏👍

[@arminrc]

Excellent comparison! I guess it is time to get a Tamiya 2WD Buggy again! 😀 Thanks for sharing!

[@MarkBryanRC]

Thanks very much! You can't beat a Tamiya RWD buggy! Excellent fun to drive. Thanks for watching!👍

[@peteuncle2935]

Get a dt03, preferably racing fighter as it has the decent narrow front tyres from factory which will turn and handle much better. If you get the right kit they come with a torque tuned, but even a 13.5t sensored brushless will work fine with the tble04 esc. If your need more power, the sky is the limit, i use a 4300kv 3660 in mine, the torque is just unbelievable. Ps, get a decent high speed steering servo, makes such a difference to how the car feels and drives, much more agile feeling and steering accuracy is improved also with some alloy fromt steering knuckles and C Hubs 😁

[@arminrc]

@@peteuncle2935 Thanks for the info!

[@thecontractor365]

Hi Mark, a fascinating in depth review here. Although I own the DT-02 Holiday Buggy & Sand Rover and have no complaints about the chassis, having had no breakages over the years, I must admit that I'm strangely drawn to the DT-03 chassis. I think the slimness of it just appeals to me and I do like the Racing Fighter as a buggy. Also I fully agree regarding those awful screw pins you mention. Although I've yet to bend one I have had one simply vanish after a run. Presumably it just unscrewed itself during running. Great video mate with some fascinating comparisons. Best wishes for the weekend my friend..👍🏻😀👍🏻😀.

[@MarkBryanRC]

Hiya mate! Wow, great to hear that you've had no issues with your HB and Sand Rover, I think that those bodies do a great job of protecting the shock towers, though! As you know, I love the 02 and 03 equally, but for different reasons. I'm with you on the looks of the Racing Fighter, always intrigued by something a little different! It's a cool looking buggy for sure. Hehe, I've also lost a few screw pins (well, the one's that haven't rusted, anyway!!) Thanks foe tuning in every week and wishing you a cracking weekend, too! 🤞🙏👌👍

[@riclloyd5172]

You can use the stainless hinge pin hop up from the tl01 kit to replace most of the screw pins and as they are stainless they don't rust and are secured with e-clips.

[@MarkBryanRC]

@@riclloyd5172 Cheers Ric, great tip! I do use those stainless hinge pins and have put the part number in the description - many thanks! 🙏🙏😉😉👍👍

[@NordicRC]

Very comprehensive overview, Mark! Brilliant. I had planned to do one myself, for years. I agree with all the points, although the performance difference kind of escapes me. I know the DT-03, in theory, should have some advantages (balance, wheel base) but ... Hmm, maybe the difference is better felt when driving them at the same time. Well, remember the Neo Fighter Buggy comes with the wide formula 1 front tires too. It's only the Racing Fighter that has the "correct front tires". Some DT-02's also have them. But yeah, if I should choose between a Neo and Racing fighter kit, I would choose the Racing Fighter - due to the front tires. Well, enough said. Brilliant video, Mark.

[@NordicRC]

BTW, I've seen the Desert Gator pop up now and then for sale too. Basically the Viper is a redesigned Desert Gator, with a new body.

[@MarkBryanRC]

Hi Mikael and thanks very much for your kind comment! I have been thinking about this video for a while, ended up waffling for almost 40 minutes and had to cut loads out! Yes, the different designs are evident when driving back-to-back, the 03 is definitely more planted and stable. Haha, yeah the Racing Fighter is the only one with the right front tyres! I do love my DT03, but that said I still have a soft spot for my DT02's! Gotta love Tamiya, mate! 😉🙏😍👍

[@MarkBryanRC]

Unfortunately I've never seen a Desert Gator for sale in the UK! 😢🙏👍

[@NordicRC]

@@MarkBryanRC Yeah. The DT-02 is so iconic. Especially with all the different bodies, from modern iconic bodies like the Viper to the classic Rivers etc., and the tremendous success it had right from the start. No wonder it’s still available here almost 20 years later. What a long run it has had.

[@NordicRC]

@@MarkBryanRC Yeah, maybe it’s discontinued now. But sometimes it actually pops up at Tamico. Though now it’s probably more than a year ago the last time … but well, no worries. The Viper is a essentially a Gator - just a tiny more beautiful ☺️

[@BangForYourBuckRc]

Hey there Mark! I totally dnjoyed this video, especially the snippets of video of those cars blasting around kicking dirt! I think this is the most comprehensive video I’ve seen on these to cars! Well done!!!👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻 Quick question though! Are there alternative body options that will fit on the DT02, or is it just primarily the “Holiday style buggy “ and the one you show here in this video? Take care my friend and have a blissful weekend!👌🏼😃✌🏻

[@MarkBryanRC]

Thanks a ton Robbie and glad to hear you enjoyed the vid! As for other bodies, I have seen these DT02's fitted with a VW Beetle body from the Blitzer Beetle, they look so cool! I'm sure there are many other bodies that can be made to fit, too. All the best, bro - hope your weekend is going well too!👍

[@gigglehurtz3167]

dont have a dt 03 but i gotta tell ya i bought the holiday buggy kit just for fun because it was cheap....i was impressed by the dt02 chassis.

[@MarkBryanRC]

Oh yes, the Holiday Buggy on the DT02 chassis is a great value for money kit, I absolutely love mine! 😎👍

[@AddamsPlayground]

Great comparison and I agree both are terrific buggies and are a ton of fun for the money. I have enjoyed both of mine and they run great on the track. I do agree the front tires on the DT02 are not super but they are usable!

[@MarkBryanRC]

Hi Addam, always great to read you! I definitely got the impression that you like both your DT buggies! Same here dude! I think I'll wait for better weather and give them a race off for a bit of fun! Cheers 🍻

[@ShenRC]

Good points Mark, I like both chassis, The front pin spikes are cool!

[@MarkBryanRC]

Thanks a ton, Steve! Yeah, I do think both chassis are great, and the Sand Viper turns so much better with those pin spikes! Cheers dude! 👍

[@jone7940]

Thanks for another informative video Mark. You have a knack for answering my questions just as I think them. Very cool mate!

[@MarkBryanRC]

...and thank you very much for watching, Jon! Well, I just start talking and answer my own questions that pop into my head! We must be similar minded! Cheers, mate!

[@DustyFingersRC]

Nice comparison. I watched you DT02 video you did a while back where you showed the front shock brace. Thought it was a great idea but I never got round to making one. Had loads of crashed and jumped it loads and It has never broke (yet) but I probably just jinxed myself 😂 Never owned a DT-03 as I preferred the chassis layout of the DT-02 and a beetle shell fits it nicely. Those pins though, I totally agree, a cheap part that you need to keep an eye on. As you say, surface rust can occur easily. 👍🏻

[@MarkBryanRC]

Hi Damian and many thanks for the comment! Yeah the shock tower brace is all good but is a bit of a faff to make. Hope yours never breaks and you have done well to come this far without issues! I must build a Beetle version of a DT02 one day, always liked that idea. I put a link in the description about TL01 hop-up stainless pins to replace them if you ever need to! Cheers mate! 😉👌👍

[@DustyFingersRC]

@@MarkBryanRC think I will get them for the DT-02. I bought a few sets before for other models. Thanks Mark, appreciated 👍🏻

[@Toystheyrenot]

Great comparison and a very informative video! I love my DT03. Glad I picked it as my first modern rc car whenI got back into the hobby. It has seen quite a lot of action and is still going strong.. now with silly brushless power.😂

[@MarkBryanRC]

Right on, Sean! Good to hear you enjoyed the video my friend! You picked a great Tamiya to get back into the hobby with. Good to hear it's still going strong, even with Pete Wylie power!!! Cheers! 🤣🙏👍

[@Toystheyrenot]

@@MarkBryanRC we all know Pete Wylie power all too well.🤣👍

[@MarkBryanRC]

@@Toystheyrenot 😂😁👌👍

[@yodadarksideGreenHawksRC]

Hey Mark, great informative video there mate. That's a splendid summary of a platform(s) that I didn't really know anything about. I have never built or driven either, but often hear its praises being sung.... Craig from OAG is another big fan I do believe. Got me intrigued now, to the point I've been on ebay checking them out! Most surprised at how much you get for your money, a great package for a lower end kit. Fellow Green hawks crew Taylor and moo moo have just bought a hornet and grass hopper, and I could do with a buggy to run with them.... There's no way I'm using my TRF top force or Avante driving with those 2 nutters! 🤣 Ive also got a spare TBLM brushless motor knocking about that was useless in some of my other cars, seem to remember being impressed with the performance in that sand viper in some of your previous videos.... maybe worth looking into? Cheers for sharing the knowledge bud, very useful for sure. 👍 👍 👍 P. S Love your aluminium home made hop ups, something I often do on my own runners. Something you don't see so much of these days! 👍

[@MarkBryanRC]

Hello Mr. Darkside! Thanks for the great comment as ever! Yes, these buggies are cheap and cheerful but are surprisingly capable, especially with a little tweaking (as with most Tamiyas, don't you think?) Oh man, either of these would certainly show up a Hornet or Grasshopper - you gotta get one! The TBLM I fitted (15.5T) is enough to add that bit more performance but is lacking in revs, so needs higher gearing, it has tons of torque though so I do recommend it. Gotta love a bit of basically engineered alloy plate, but most folks struggle with a hacksaw, vice, drill and files these days!!! 🤣🤣👌👍

[@yodadarksideGreenHawksRC]

@@MarkBryanRC Yes indeed mate.... I love a little tweeking and tinkering! So..... I started looking at the DT03 buggies on ebay tonight in view of treating myself to one. Unfortunately, I somehow got diverted down a wormhole and seduced by the dark side forces of Kyosho..... Long story short, I accidentally just bought a Kyosho Turbo Optima instead !! 🤣 So much for getting myself an entry level buggy to bash with eh?!! It was all that gold anodised aluminium, I just couldn't resist! 'shiny shiny'!!!! Oh well, the DT03 and the XV01 will have to wait for now.... but both will be compulsory purchases at some stage in the future for sure. Now I've just got to work out how to tell the inland revenue that I've just spent my income tax bill due by January 31st on another toy car! 🤣 👍 👍 👍 👍

[@MarkBryanRC]

@@yodadarksideGreenHawksRC Haha, I've done some of those impulse buys in the past, too! But fair play, the Kyosho Turbo Optima is a wonderful RC from the ground up, congratulations on your new purchase ...and sod the Inland Revenue!!! 🤣🤣👍👍

[@rccrawlersmid-wales645]

Fantastic stuff as always Mark, and loads of great info. Handy for me when I constantly forget if I've got a DT-02 or 03... 🙄 I don't think I will now! I missed this somehow when it appeared, but glad I finally caught it! 👍

[@MarkBryanRC]

Thanks mate! Haha, I forget my own name sometimes! Glad you found the video, I think that notifications are a bit random these days. I also uploaded a video of the FCX24, I used the same soundtrack as I heard on one of your videos. You have a great taste in music, so thanks for that, Steve! 👍

[@brokenspokesxl]

Some good words there brother, I'll be making a reinforced shock plate for my dt02 after watching this, thanks dude 🤙

[@MarkBryanRC]

Many thanks, bro! It is a bit fiddly to make one of those brace plates but I'm sure you will be glad you did it in the long run! Hope it goes well for you, all the best dude! 🤞👌👍

[@leewprice]

I've got both and love driving them both. I upgraded my Holiday Buggy to CVAs. I've also recently added lead weight to the front of the Neo Fighter to try and counteract the slight understeer. I didn't know the Sand Viper came with additions! Thanks for that Mark. I've also added Torque Tuned to the Holiday buggy, makes it more rail happy. I like driving them, though they're almost too competent, if you catch my drift. Driving my Rising Fighter (with CVAs and anti-gay mod) is more satisfying, bizarrely!!!! I am just a park basher, though. Life is competitive enough lol!

[@leewprice]

Anti hop lol not gay 😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@MarkBryanRC]

Hi Lee! Yeah they a 2 great chassis for sure! I have yet to try some weight on the front, I'm just lazy! Yep my Holiday Buggy is as fast as it needs to be with the Torque Tuned, too. I do know what you mean about these chassis being so competent, but my DT03 with the brushless motor is a bit more of a challenge to drive fast! The Rising Fighter is just a battle to keep in a straight line! Same here, just a bit of bashing with friends is enough for me, mate! :O)

[@MarkBryanRC]

🤣😁😜 Haha yeah that made me laugh, Lee! 👌👍

[@rivierarc]

I have the DT03 Neo Fighter and as you say for the money they are excellent fun. The DT02 Sand Viper is sitting patiently on the build pile ... Personally I love the look of the Sand Viper over either of the DT03s..

[@MarkBryanRC]

Couldn't agree more, Glenn! The Sand Viper is just a classic looking buggy and can be made to look very special with a cool paint and livery job! Have fun when you get round to it - cheers! :))

[@rivierarc]

@@MarkBryanRC still deciding on the livery to be honest. Currently building my racing truck but the Sand Viper is near the top of the list 😁

[@MarkBryanRC]

@@rivierarc They look great with a TRF livery, mate! I'll be tuning in to see what you come up with though! 😉😉👍👍

[@PeteWylieRC]

Hello mate. Well that was a very comprehensive guide to these two. I can tell that you put some thought into this and I can't think of anything you missed. Obviously when you said there's no point going crazy with the motor speed I would respectfully disagree 😂 My thoughts on these are that I like the fact that you can get off the shelf shock tower upgrades for the DT-03 but I prefer the handling of the shorter wheelbase DT-02. Just easier to throw around. Good stuff mate and I hope it does well for you which I think it will. I'm going to do a bit of RC over the weekend so looking forward to that. Hope you've got a good one planned. Cheers for now 😁👍

[@MarkBryanRC]

Hiya Pete - thanks mate but I know you would disagree about my choice of tame brushless power! 🤣 TBH I love the handling of both but I can still chuck the 03 around pretty well! Yeah, this type of video usually does pretty well as it does divide or bring up lots of opinions. Hope the weather is good for your RC weekend antics, it's so bloody cold up here I'm just staying inside until March!!! Still trying to get this blasted gastritis under control, but getting there slowly I think. All the best my good friend! 😁👌👍

[@markconnors3269]

Great video I’ve never owned a holiday buggy love the look Was wondering any holiday buggy upgrade videos pls thanks 😊

[@MarkBryanRC]

Hi Mark, yep the Holiday Buggy is a cracking looking buggy! I have done a build guide on it and there a few little hop-ups along the way: Part 1: kzbin.info/www/bejne/lXuxmneeh9yKnqc Part 2: kzbin.info/www/bejne/apDFeYakbbaBmbs Part 3: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nYPbeHuIaqeHn6c

[@markconnors3269]

@@MarkBryanRC thanks mark I’ll take a look 👀

[@MauzyrockRC]

I've got the Holiday buggy in the wings waiting to build... So a few upgrades needed. Cheers!

[@MarkBryanRC]

Hi Dude, I know you will enjoy the build, you know what needs to be changed, bushings, shocks, motor, pinion... but at least you shouldn't have too many issues with the shock towers as they are protected by the body. You might wanna swap out those screw pins though, for the TL01 stainless hop-up, #53301. Cheers!

[@MauzyrockRC]

@@MarkBryanRC Terrific thanks!

[@schuttrostig5729]

I like the front wheels on your DT-02 !

[@MarkBryanRC]

Thanks, Schutt - I rather like them myself and they do perform better than stock! :O)

[@mattbatstone2825]

Hi Mark. Change the suspension hinge pins for tamiya Tl01 stainless pivot pins and use 3mm washers to shim as required

[@MarkBryanRC]

Cool, thanks for the info, Matt! Yes great tip, if you look very carefully at the video you might be able to see those pins in the front of my DT02 and also in the rear of my DT03! I did mention when filming but had to cut the video down as it was too long! Thanks to you, I've just put a link to that hop-up in the video description! Much appreciated, Matt!

[@HaydadRC]

Nice comparisons Mark! I don’t think you can go wrong with either one! 👍😊

[@MarkBryanRC]

Thanks my good friend! Totally agree, both are superb little entry level buggies and a ton of fun. Take care, Jeremy!👍

[@craigpimlott204]

Never broke a DT02 front shock tower on the where the shock mounts ,I’ve broke a couple where that pin goes through to hold the bottom arm on though.😅I’ve narrowed mine now to the old holiday buggy width and run a rough rider body on it .with sand scorcher wheels and tyres on it so it looks like the old srb chassis cars .my others the same but with a sandrover body shell .just got to finish my Xmas pressie off me lad ,a sand scorcher..wanted one for years but couldn’t afford one …love rear wheel drive stuff more than 4wd ,that’s why I love my old classic cars all British and all rwd ….

[@MarkBryanRC]

Hi Craig and many thanks for sharing your hobbywork! Oh yeah, I forgot to mention snapping the shock tower there, I've done that a few times too. I love the sound of the Rough Rider tribute you've created, great stuff indeed! Wow, your son did you proud! What an awesome present, I only got a jumper!!! 🤣 Couldn't agree more, the classic RWD cars are my faves, too! Cheers mate! 😉👌👍

[@desburggraaff6444]

awesome vid man! been looking to buy one of these and your video has really helped me decide, thanks!

[@MarkBryanRC]

Glad to hear it helped you decide! Thanks for dropping a comment, all the best from Mark... :D

[@catcancrunch7260]

I enjoyed this mate, I can recommend the Carson all terrain wheels and tyres, softer with greater grip and do look great, however they wear quite fast iam on my second set on my dt03, I have put in my traxxas 550 12 turn with minor adjustment and it really rips now, I really do like running it and think it's good value for the money and well built, as a tarmac runner the down side if it's wet they spin out on breaking big time, thanks for your upload mate 👍🙏🐱

[@MarkBryanRC]

Cool, thanks Cat! Glad you enjoyed my waffling! Thanks for the tip, I have seen those Carson wheels and they look very cool. I might have to pick up a set! Wow I bet yours shifts with that 12T, no wonder it spins out in the wet! Take care mate and hope your weekend is going well! 😉🙏👌👍

[@rc-dom-uk]

Excellent review mark . It’s tough to call between them . Thanks mate 😊👍

[@MarkBryanRC]

Thanks a ton, Dom! Definitely a tough call matey! 👍

[@rc-dom-uk]

@@MarkBryanRC I’ll probably get both eventually as they are such a good price 👍

[@MarkBryanRC]

Sounds like a great plan, Dom! 😉👌👍

[@markhollinshead5795]

loved this vid please do more chassis reviews im a proud owner off the viper just ordering a neo fighter plus bearings haha

[@MarkBryanRC]

Thanks very much, Mark! I'll do my best to come up with a few more of these videos, especially as it's too cold for me to go out running RC's at the moment! Good news, soon you will be able to make your own mind up about these two awesome chassis! Cheers!

[@JF-RC]

Hi there Mark, a great comparison. (Although I think you mean 25mm, rather than cm) longer. Slight slip of the tongue. 😊😊😊. Great explanation of the tyres, camber, suspension options. I love the modifications to the DT02, especially that aluminium plate mods. Those screw pins are terrible. I’ve been entertaining myself with a DT-03 Neo Fighter that I pickup last year from Amazon for £76! Think I might get some road wheels and tyres though, as I wouldn’t Ming running mine on some streets around home, and those square spikes are not going to last long on tarmac, surfaces. Great details bud. Best wishes to you all 😊😊

[@MarkBryanRC]

Hiya my friend John! Thanks for the kind words as always. Haha, yeah, getting my worms mixed up AGAIN - definitely mm, not cm!!!! You can swap those crappy screw pins for TL01 hop-up stainless pins, mate. Great price for that Neo Fighter - those road wheels are a must on tarmac, fit them and have some fun! All the best to you all, John, cheers! 🙏😉👍

[@philthyco1]

I think the DT-03 is better right out the box ..Stronger but I like the DT-02 more standard type tub chassis

[@MarkBryanRC]

Thanks Phil - I totally agree with you dude! :))

[@UncleBobsRC]

Awesome video on the two DT kits Mark!!!! Apples & Oranges. I never built an 03, maybe someday. Jen's Sand Viper is a bit of a handful to drive with the stock motor I put in it running on 2S with stock tires, but it was fun!!! I never looked hard for replacement tires for it, I did find front tires but they don't really fit (the tires I got are 2.2 inch). ATB my friend!!!!!

[@MarkBryanRC]

Right on, Bob! Maybe apples and pears? 🤣You need a DT03 mate, just for the fun of it! Oh yeah, these RWD buggies are a real handful but very rewarding when you get it right. Bummer about the wrong size tyres! ATB to you and the clan, brother! 😁👍

[@UncleBobsRC]

@@MarkBryanRC I'll look at an 03, but me still wants at least 2 more Clods!!! LOL

[@MarkBryanRC]

🤣🤣🤣❤️😁

[@UncleBobsRC]

@@MarkBryanRC I want to build at least one brushless Clod!!! LOL

[@RCJunky]

Another great video Mark.. i do you think you mean 25mm not cm.. :) also the Sand Viper DT-02 is a far superior kits. the included upgrade parts. Better motor, Bearings, CVA shocks, metal drive. TBLE-04S ESC line and adjustable top arms.

[@MarkBryanRC]

Many thanks, Simon! Oops - My bad!!! I didn't even notice that I said cm when editing the video - what a plonker I am!!! 🤣 Thanks for pointing that out! Oh yeah, the Sand Viper is by far the best value-for-money kit. I still rate the Racing Fighter though, but you need to spend a few quid to get it up to Sand Viper spec. All the best and have a great weekend! 😉👌👍

[@gogotrololo]

i've been wondering how to get my DT02 GR super fighter back into action after giving up replacing the front shock towers, and i think I will have to try this aluminum support trick! thanks for showing this off :)

[@MarkBryanRC]

Glad I could help and thank you for watching and commenting. Oh yeah, it will be great to get the old GR up and running again, I bet it will put a smile on your face!

[@gogotrololo]

@@MarkBryanRC yeah it was a favorite for a while for sure. I was running comical hornet tires on it with a brushless system, and it was so goofy lol the added wheel height and higher speed added too much stress to the shock towers over bumps, so it'll come back as a normal buggy with original wheels, and get a sport tune motor setup to be more durable haha

[@MarkBryanRC]

@@gogotrololo Hehe, now I see why it broke! But yeah, a sport tuned will definitely suit this buggy!

[@outbackrcaustralia4895]

Thanks for sharing your great comparison video👍🦘🇦🇺

[@MarkBryanRC]

And many thanks to you for watching and leaving a nice comment, mate! 🙏😉👍

[@outbackrcaustralia4895]

@@MarkBryanRC My pleasure, thanks mate👍

[@ioskaioska5166]

Great Video! Do you think the Dt02 Chassis can fit (replace) a dt03? They sell an aftermarket aluminum chassis for Dt02 and since both platforms (dt02-dt03) share many parts I was thinking If I could swap the dt03 with the Dt02 aluminum chassis?

[@MarkBryanRC]

Thanks! No you can't swap the DT03 chassis and replace it with a DT02. the rear gearbox mount is the same on both, but the front ends are different, the DT03 front suspension fits to the chassis and the DT02 front end has a separate subframe. If you had the DT02 front shock tower and mounting plates you might be able to do it. Not a straight swap, though!

[@mad-beerc3818]

Nice one Mark an entertaining comparison! Both are excellent and proven so l am calling it a draw! 😉👍 Useful mod also mate👍

[@MarkBryanRC]

Thanks a ton, James! I like your style, a draw is definitely the way to go on this one! Cheers, mate!👍

[@mad-beerc3818]

@@MarkBryanRC ✌😉

[@chrishubball7185]

Hi Mark is there an alternative to the tamiya 54432 dt02 front damper support as no where seems to stock them and nit sure about making one from aluminium

[@MarkBryanRC]

Hi Chris, I checked and that number is for the rear carbon stay. The front is part 54562. I can find both available on eBay in the UK. I don't know of any alternative. Hope you can track one down! 😎👍

[@danielandrews7028]

A completely overlooked upgrade for the dt03. ITEM# 54816 RC DT03 REINFORCED M PARTS It’s only 5 dollars US

[@MarkBryanRC]

Hi Daniel and many thanks for the tip, I must admit I never knew about this upgrade, so your input is much appreciated! Cheers!

[@ThompsonRc]

Great comparison

[@MarkBryanRC]

Thanks a ton, buddy! Have a great weekend! 😁👌👍

[@shelly6482]

Mark what other Tamiya offroad spiked rear tyres fit the DT-03 stock wheels?

[@MarkBryanRC]

Hi Shelley - any rear tyres from the DT02 and TT02B range will fit. Fastrax and Absima also do a good range of spiked tyres for these models that will fit. Cheers!

[@UlisesBatalla]

i used your suspension pin upgrade and keep plenty on hand. Or I heat up the original pins with a lighter and I melt the plastic as I screw the pins in and they seat nicely and will not crack the plastic in `15yrs when we revisit these buggies to sell

[@MarkBryanRC]

Hi there and thanks for reminding about that screw pin upgrade! Here is some info for those reading this: Tamiya TL01 Stainless Steel Suspension Pins - Part number: 53301 I like your idea for seating the stock pins though! Best wishes from Mark. 😊👌👍

[@Jaysqualityparts]

Very informative 👍🏻

[@MarkBryanRC]

Glad you liked it, thanks very much for watching and commenting! 🙏👌👍

[@Paul__FC]

1 second in and I will say DT02 ALL DAY!

[@MarkBryanRC]

Thanks Paul - but I just KNEW this one would divide opinions! 😉👌👍

[@peteuncle2935]

Dt02 for looks and agility, for sure. dt03 for stability on the track when traction is limited. Much more stable to drive with the longer wheelbase, way less loops. You can also make the dt03 more powerful without it flipping upsidedown every time you hit the throttle thanks to the longer wheelbase 😁

[@SuperBigdanno]

A drop of CA glue on the screw pin threads keeps them from backing out

[@MarkBryanRC]

Good little tip, thanks for sharing! 😉👌👍

[@tomcook5813]

Marc, what chassis does the wild one have? DT# thank you 😊

[@MarkBryanRC]

Hi Tom, the Wild One chassis is unique to the wild one, based on the original FAV chassis I think. It is not used on any other Tamiya buggy. Hope this helps. 😎👍

[@tomcook5813]

@@MarkBryanRC you helped, thank you ☺️

[@Paul-McEvoy]

Great video👍 could you tell me what esc you used with the tblm motor thanks

[@MarkBryanRC]

Thanks Paul! I used the stock Tamiya TBLE02s ESC, but you need to get a sensor cable that plugs into the ESC and motor or the motor will not work! 😎👍

[@Paul-McEvoy]

That’s great mark thanks for your help 👍

[@MarkBryanRC]

@@Paul-McEvoy cheers, you are always welcome 👍

[@Paul-McEvoy]

Hi mark I wonder could you help me I am thinking of running a super stock bz motor will a THW 1060 rtr do the job many thanks

[@MarkBryanRC]

@@Paul-McEvoy Hey Paul, I have heard only good reports about the BZ motor, it is a big improvement over the speed of the stock silver can. The THW 1060 is also excellent!

[@n22pdf]

Great info dude very interesting 🤩🤩👍🏅

[@MarkBryanRC]

Glad you think so, Pete! I recorded so much of this that I had to cut it down by 20 minutes! Many thanks for watching my friend! 😁🙏✌👊

[@LassoKid7777]

What size motor does a dt03t fit 540? And what's the largest lipo I can fit a 3s 5000mah?

[@MarkBryanRC]

Hi there. Yes the stock motor is a 540 but you can easily fit a 550 if you want. The largest battery I have that fits measures 140x48x25mm. 😎👍

[@LassoKid7777]

Ty​@@MarkBryanRC

[@MarkBryanRC]

@@LassoKid7777 You are very welcome!

[@LassoKid7777]

@@MarkBryanRC I've decided to go with a 9T 4370kv brushless setup uncensored and 60amp ESC 3s capable , I think it's plenty for a 1/10 , I also got every upgrade I could find so weight will be up from box stock, thanks again

[@MarkBryanRC]

@@LassoKid7777 Wow it's gonna fly with that setup!!! Have fun! 😁😁👍👍

[@hereismyusername007]

Great video

[@MarkBryanRC]

Glad you enjoyed it, thanks very much for dropping a comment! Cheers! 🍺😎👍

[@enricomiceli5517]

Had both, the dt02 is far lighter than dt03 and it is far wilder, on the other hand the weight distribution and the longer chassis makes the dt02 a little slower but fare easier for me to handle, even on full throttle the dt03 still hold and goes straight where the dt02 often burnouts or goes offtrack. Steering is absolutely decent on dt03, not top noch but decent, on the dt02 not so easy to set and i had ofter problems, especially after bashing...

[@MarkBryanRC]

Good points! I never thought to weigh the chassis, I need to do that! I agree about the handling, the 03 is so much more stable, the 02 is a little wayward at times! All the best! :)

[@enricomiceli5517]

​@@MarkBryanRC hey, quick question, is it normal for the rear stabilizer (upgrade) to slide left and right and not be fixed, compared to the front onr?

[@MarkBryanRC]

Sorry but I haven't seen the stabilisers for these cars. But I imagine the stabiliser will not move when the car is driving as the pressure on it will keep it fixed in place.

[@chrisscott3039]

😎👍

[@MarkBryanRC]

Cheers mate! 😉👌🙏👍

[@jessicalatex2539]

Holiday Buggy wise I've been coming up with a project of sorts where i would be looking to replace the original wheels and tyres to something else.. after looking i was thinking the wheels and tyres from the comical grasshopper/hornet/frog would look closer to a dune buggy style.. I've also spotted a hex adaptor that has a bearing inside it on ebay.. just not 100% on the offsets of the rims to fit on the front and rear of the car.. .. debating as to just buying one of each and then trying it and if it works buy that bearing hex adaptor..

[@MarkBryanRC]

Hi Jessica, that sounds like a cool project! I like the idea of the comical buggy wheels and tyres, that would look cool. I have tried some bearing hex adaptors on my DT02 in the past and wasn't pleased with them, the wheels never span as freely as the stock ones and there was a lot of wobble in the wheels. That could just be down to the adaptors I used though and others might be better. The Rising Fighter and Sand Viper wheels are wider and might take the comical tyres. If you need much wider wheels on the front you could also look at the blitzer / Aqroshot wheels. Just a thought! Cheers!

[@jessicalatex2539]

@@MarkBryanRC thanks for the advice...

[@dwarfyh32]

Very informative 👌

[@MarkBryanRC]

Glad you think so mate, Cheers! 🙏👌👍