Building an RC: Tamiya Blitzer Beetle (Time Lapse)

This is a time lapse build of a custom Tamiya Blitzer Beetle (2011 re-release kit #58502). In this video, I record my build and some of the custom work in time lapse mode. At the end of the video I show the complete results of the build.

Thanks for watching and don't forget to subscribe!

Subscribe to my channel
   / @mechanicafterhours  

Notes:
I really didn’t plan on building a Blitzer Beetle. Although it’s a fun looking kit, it’s not something I’m immediately attracted to. However, the actual VW Beetle car reminds me a lot of the time I spent and stayed with my aunt during the summers as a little kid. She had a 1300 and she took me everywhere with her in that car. As a kid, those days where the some of best days because I was very much into cars—and the sound of that air cooled engine is burnt in my memory. She was also a great driver and always drove her bug like she stole it. So this build is a tribute to her and her car.

This is my first time working on a Tamiya plastic hard shell (or any plastic scale model). I have to admit it wasn’t easy because of the 1/10 scale and it took me way longer than I had planned. The goal for the theme or look is to build/design something that I’d want to drive if it were a real car. The understated look is a nod to my like of things that are classic or timeless looking. Obviously, there are limits to what can be done from a skill and financial level.

I did want black paint from the very beginning and a different set of wheels—which was the challenge. The Blitzer Beetle has bearing type wheels on the front and so I had to do a little research and ended up using TL01 front parts make hex wheels work. I also wanted to add some engine sound because I think it’s fitting for this build. I used an ESS One+ 2017 sound simulator. Then the other highlight is the rear. I wanted something at first glance to look real car with a modified air cooled engine. So I had to figure what metal bits and parts could be combined to create that look. I completed it with a vintage Trinity Monster Horsepower (#RC2000) stock motor.

As for the front fascia, I initially planned on using the supplied headlights and trim but it just looked too cute. Coincidentally, I saw a Porsche Macan Turbo with a four point headlight and it gave me the idea make something or to look for something similar. I eventually discovered Baja Designs (1:1 vehicles) and that there were actually 1/10 version of their squadron lights. Added some 9v battery fo a brighter output.

I also ended up switching out the driver helmet for an Avante one that I already had. I wanted the driver to be a woman—a tribute to my aunt. There are also other little details and customization in the video. Thanks for watching and I hope you enjoy it.