RE: Mato Mart WARNING!!!!
****UPDATE****...eBay found in my favor and gave me a full refund(including shipping)...Bottom line I'm only out about $45 for shipping the first tank back...oh well I guess I'll chalk it up as a "stupid-tax"...[&:]
Posted on: 9/18/2012 12:32 PM by Author "DirtyBird69" in the forum "RC Tanks"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11232637

RE: Mato Mart WARNING!!!!
I hear ya brushler....if it was something simple like a swingarm I'd have no problem, but both tanks have had siginicantly more/bigger problems then a simple little fix like that....If they just do a quick check/test like Phil does they would have no problems at all.....at least just a thorough visual inspection would be nice..... that would have saved both of us a ton of trouble.... [quote]ORIGINAL: Airbrushler Dirty Bird sorry to hear about that but i always had great service from MatoMart i would order from them everytime i mean as far as a crack in a swingarm i don't think anyone would notice that being that they are covered by a road wheel don't think even Phil would notice that unless he took it apart. you know what the HL tanks are like i don't think this is something to blame on MatoMart but just the old HL thing i;m sure someone on here might even have a few swing arms to replace it even you never know ...just my thought again i would order from MatoMart anytime [:D] [/quote]
Posted on: 9/18/2012 6:44 AM by Author "DirtyBird69" in the forum "RC Tanks"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11232251

RE: Mato Mart WARNING!!!!
No Mato sells on eBay as well..they call themselves "RC-DYNASTY". I like using eBay as for the protection they offer against shotty goods(plus sellers have more pressure to protect their feedback)...maybe it's just bad luck on my part, but all these problems could easily have been found....All they had to do is pull the dam tank out of the box and check to see that ALL the wheels turn freely, there are no cracks/chips in the body, and maybe check that the transmitter is ok.....takes like 2 minutes to do, then stick it back in the box and ship it..... [quote]ORIGINAL: 1sgt DB, You mentioned filing a complaint with EBay. Mato sells from there own site. Perhaps your talking of a HL tank you bought on ebay and are having problems with that seller, not Mato. For what it's worth, I have had good coustomer service from Mato by following their guidlines. Anything I have found broke, they promply replaced it. I'm sorry to hear of your problems. Jim [/quote]
Posted on: 9/18/2012 6:38 AM by Author "DirtyBird69" in the forum "RC Tanks"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11232249

Mato Mart WARNING!!!!
Just FYI guys, I've never had a problem with Mato till this last debacle with a KV-1 I ordered from them almost a month ago. It came out of the box with numerous defects(broken transmitter stick,chips in the body, as well as a broken suspension arm). Needless to say I sent it back a day or two later(cost me $45) and when they sent me a replacement(which they supposedly checked thoroughly), I pulled it out of the box and come to find all the return rollers locked up on on the left side.....I did manage to get one to turn with much effort but you can tell it puts a ton of strain on it(you can see all the excess glue coming out from between the roller wheels).They were suppose to send me a new tank, but I think all they did was just bodge some different parts on the original tank as everything came in the same exact boxes I sent back(even the same HL box). Anyways I finally got sick of all the nonsense tonight and filed a claim with eBay(which I know I will win). But what really amazes me is that Mato is actually accusing me of breaking both of them even though neither were out of the box for more then 20 min(I never even ran them)!...Unbelievable...I've owned several HL's from other sellers and never had a problem with any of them. All I want is a tank that comes out of the box without any major defects(is that too much to ask?)! But this is the first time I've ordered something from Mato other then small stuff,and it's been nothing but a nightmare...So I'm just sending out a word of warning about Mato Mart,as it seems like their quality control/ customer service is way down.......
Posted on: 9/17/2012 9:17 PM by Author "DirtyBird69" in the forum "RC Tanks"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11231902

RE: Mato Mart WARNING!!!!
Yup, I tried Phil first and he was out of KV-1's and I figured Mato had a good rep, so I gave them a shot....what a mistake lol.. At this point I'd rather order from Welsh Dragon Models across the pond then MatoMart just up the road in Canada....[:@] apparently I'm not the only one.... http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/m_10385802/anchors_10385869/mpage_1/key_/anchor/tm.htm#10385869
Posted on: 9/17/2012 9:11 PM by Author "DirtyBird69" in the forum "RC Tanks"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11231922

RE: New style ZTZ99.....???

Posted on: 9/14/2012 2:29 PM by Author "DirtyBird69" in the forum "RC Tanks"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11228650

RE: New style ZTZ99.....???
That's what I'm thinking....But I thought HL was going to offer this newer version???...or is that just what "they" say?
Posted on: 9/14/2012 1:17 PM by Author "DirtyBird69" in the forum "RC Tanks"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11228598

New style ZTZ99.....???
Has anybody got a handle on what's going on with the new version of the ZTZ99 with the extra armor? There's a seller on FeeBay that show's a pic of one, but when questioned he gives me a vague answer which tells me his are the old style. I kinda in the mood for one,but prefer the up-armored version...(see pic)
Posted on: 9/14/2012 1:03 PM by Author "DirtyBird69" in the forum "RC Tanks"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11228574

RE: Clark electronics TK20
Here Here! [quote]ORIGINAL: tsull I have to say how much I appreciate Dan's comments and his careful analysis of his position with respect to selling the DBC3/Benedini units. I ordered one from him and I'm in the process of building a breakout board that can be used to plug the RX18, DBC3, Benedini and provide several additional power ports and servo plugs. My goal is to plug all the boards into the breakout board, build a clean styrene kit box with a fan and be able to plug all tank systems into the top of the kit box. I'll post when done. I absolutely hate a mass of wires and naked boards floating around. My point is that I am spending precious time trying to tame the mess of all the boards and systems that must be cojoined to make the system work. I would love nothing more than one board to control everything. However, as all the functions need to provide the desired outcome (the HL elevation system on the RX18/DBC sucks../not Dan's fault), it's only as good as where you bought it from. If the Clarke board doesn't provide good directions and even more importantly, great service - it's like buying a Heng Long tank all over again. Maybe it will work and maybe it won't. Perhaps Dan can marry the Benedini and the Clarke board to provide a turn key solutions at a cost effective basis (and getting rid of the RX18!) while providing excellent sound control and management while providing exceptional service(?). Just a hope. I hate buying overseas and waiting, and hoping, and wondering.... tjs [/quote]
Posted on: 9/14/2012 9:32 AM by Author "DirtyBird69" in the forum "RC Tanks"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11228392

KV-2 beutepanzer shell rack
wasn't sure if anybody would be interested, but If anyone needs exterior shell rack for their KV-2 beutepanzer project I have one I'd be willing to let go of...it's very nice, but I won't be needing it for my current project. I will also have a complete brand new airsoft HL KV-1 turret/w internals I'm looking to get rid of as well....just pm if interested
Posted on: 9/13/2012 6:31 PM by Author "DirtyBird69" in the forum "RC Tanks"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11227718

RE: Tiger pulls to the right
You should really invest the $50 in a tensioner...they're worth every cent! http://rctankwars.com/products.asp
Posted on: 9/13/2012 3:40 PM by Author "DirtyBird69" in the forum "RC Tanks"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11227644

Painting Infared Apple?
hey guys just wondering if there is anything I have to watch out for when painting my IR apple? I figure at the least you don't want to get any paint inside the "gills" where it might get inside onto the sensor...anything else I'm missing? Also curious as to wether or not the factory color of the apple might affect it's reception? The reason I ask is that my Torro KV-2 turret That I just got came with a Taigen IR receiver that was all blue,even the gills(never seen one of those before), where as the standard HL apples are black with chrome gills......wasn't sure if any of this makes a difference in overall reception...? I intend to paint it anyways, but want to make sure that I have the best of the two(if one is actualy better then the other). For some reason I would think the chrome finish on the gills might be the last thing you want on a light sensor as it might throw of reflections and give false signals......or am I just crazy lol.. thanks Taigen IR infrared receiver for Heng Long & Taigen 1/16 radio control RC tanks
Posted on: 9/13/2012 7:33 AM by Author "DirtyBird69" in the forum "RC Tanks"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11227199

RE: Kyosho NeXXt
Man I love the body style....could do some ineteresting sci-fi kinda paintschemes for something different. The wheels/tires absolutely rock! Maybe even install some LED's in all the lights.....very cool! I just dig this thing lol.. [:D]
Posted on: 9/12/2012 7:45 AM by Author "DirtyBird69" in the forum "RC Car General Discussions"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11226082

RE: Matorro JAGDTIGER ?!!
Here's a pretty good video of the Jagdtiger in motion....could go a bit faster then I ever thought it could... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hhd7PD8EGJg&feature=related
Posted on: 9/10/2012 8:21 PM by Author "DirtyBird69" in the forum "RC Tanks"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11224532

RE: Tiger pulls to the right
Have you tried "stretching" the tracks a bit?.....You could have some links binding(I always seem to find some)...While your at it also check all the links to see if all the sprocket holes are clear of any excess casting....
Posted on: 9/10/2012 2:19 PM by Author "DirtyBird69" in the forum "RC Tanks"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11224118

RE: HL KV-1 Short or Long shafts?
Thanks guys.......Apparently the decrepancy comes from the fact that if you run Asiatam upgrades, I.E. gears/chassis then you need the short shafts. But if your running the factory HL chassis/w mato 2.0 gears/and mato tracks, then you will need the long shafts (like "Force" and I). Can't figure out why Asiatam has to do everything so differently...arrrgh! I was also thinking about the track tensioner kit from Asiatam, but apparently you also need to run the Asiatam idlers as they have a different sized mounting shaft then the HL idlers(and I'm still not sure if Mato tracks will work on Asiatam idlers)..... just seems rediculous all this "over-engineering" Bottom line if your running the stock chassis/w 2.0's you will need Long-shafts!
Posted on: 9/10/2012 2:02 PM by Author "DirtyBird69" in the forum "RC Tanks"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11224096

HL KV-1 Short or Long shafts?
Hey guys, I wanted to get a consensus once and for all which type of shaft I need for my HL KV-1 project. I just purchased a set of mato 2.0's from Phil and he said that I needed the short shafts, as the mounting plate spaces the gearboxes further apart and puts them right up against the bulkhead...makes sense no(and I trust Phil like a guru lol)? But then I see fellow tankers saying that the long shafts are required(http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/m_11168840/tm.htm) .... I'm very confused? Can anybody enlighten me??
Posted on: 9/9/2012 5:31 PM by Author "DirtyBird69" in the forum "RC Tanks"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11223135

RE: South East PA Battlefield/Workshop
When get my KV-2 done I'd love to come up and run with ya.....getting my son-in-law into tanks, now he wants an M26 lol....
Posted on: 9/4/2012 5:44 PM by Author "DirtyBird69" in the forum "RC Tanks"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11217640

RE: Tank Newbie
Yeah definately Phil(first choice), or on eBay "Mideatoys" or Mato Mart in Canada http://www.matomart.com/product.php?c=1000001
Posted on: 9/4/2012 2:48 PM by Author "DirtyBird69" in the forum "RC Tanks"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11217437

RE: Minor Tiger Mod and Tank Commander
Looks much better.....those HL colors are tough to match..you almost have to mix a custom batch in order to get it right...a little weathering and you really won't notice.. If you wanted you could paint a road wheel or two and will look like they were recently replaced which was a common thing on tanks back then..
Posted on: 9/1/2012 8:47 PM by Author "DirtyBird69" in the forum "RC Tanks"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11214072

RE: Minor Tiger Mod and Tank Commander
I think he's got it ... it's just hard to tell in his pics, but if you look closely he's got it right. [quote]ORIGINAL: rivetcounter I don’t wish to offend you but the hatch is in the wrong position [/quote]
Posted on: 8/30/2012 12:51 PM by Author "DirtyBird69" in the forum "RC Tanks"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11211757

RE: Aisiatam Famo ?????? Anything?
LOL...Other squadrons called us "Saltwater Farmers"... [quote]ORIGINAL: Bauer66 DirtyBird69 Thanks, You should make an area, For what this Hobby Costs, Might as well have an area for them. Minesweeping with Choppers..................................RIGHT ON!!!!! [/quote]
Posted on: 8/30/2012 9:33 AM by Author "DirtyBird69" in the forum "RC Tanks"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11211590

RE: Aisiatam Famo ?????? Anything?
Looks awesome...I was thinking of doing something similar to part of my backyard. I'm an old rotor-head myself (HM-15 BlackHawks) doing helicopter minesweeping, flying MH-53E's...
Posted on: 8/30/2012 9:19 AM by Author "DirtyBird69" in the forum "RC Tanks"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11211574

RE: Minor Tiger Mod and Tank Commander
I think it looks great....[:)]....If you do anything else I would really think about painting the sprockets and idlers gray....then all you'd need to do is brush a little weathering chalk all over the tank and then hit it with some "flat-clear" to seal it on and you'll have one mean looking Tiger....
Posted on: 8/30/2012 9:12 AM by Author "DirtyBird69" in the forum "RC Tanks"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11211569

RE: KV-1 hull mount machine gun
Looks good!..But how did you remove the original gun barrel(does it just pop out)?? where did you solder the wires? Be nice if I could get an interior shot behind the gun....[8|]
Posted on: 8/29/2012 5:03 PM by Author "DirtyBird69" in the forum "RC Tanks"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11210833

KV-1 hull mount machine gun
Hey guys,just curious if anybody has installed this on their KV-1(HL). I'm considering opurchasing one, but I would like to know what all it comes with as well as what I can expect to do to install it? Also what wires do you splice into in order to make it light when machine gun fires??? Any pics of a current install would be FANTASTIC....thanks
Posted on: 8/29/2012 4:52 PM by Author "DirtyBird69" in the forum "RC Tanks"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11210814

RE: Torro KV2 upgrade turret
Yeah, I just got it....very nice! if I hadn't had to return My KV-1 to MATO for exchange due to all the defects it had, I'd have a tank to put it on lol. other then an awesome paint job I'm really trying to build a battle-ready "budget" KV-2. basically I'm running ALL MATO upgrades(tracks,2.0's,etc.),Torro KV-2 turret kit,MAKO battle unit, Phil's upgraded speaker......I think that's about it lol...The real effort is going into the paintjob...already know what I'm going to do, just want to keep it a secret till it's finished, but if you liked my M41 you aint seen nothing yet. Since their were so few beutepanzer paintschemes to pick from I decided to go a little in my own direction(as usual) but still something that would be very plausible given the time frame of the war....particularly the last months of the war(hint,hint)
Posted on: 8/27/2012 3:30 PM by Author "DirtyBird69" in the forum "RC Tanks"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11208162

RE: Elimination of HL M41A3, 3rd. and 4th. roadwheel struts
great idea.....I do think he should have a little metal ear or something that hangs over the edge so that the spring doesn't have that sharp bend at the top, I see that as being a bit of a weak point where it might break sooner or later... [:)]
Posted on: 8/27/2012 9:33 AM by Author "DirtyBird69" in the forum "RC Tanks"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11207690

RE: Trying some new gearboxes
Man those things are SOOOOO quiet....throw in a Benedini and you'll be rockin!....very nice!
Posted on: 8/27/2012 9:31 AM by Author "DirtyBird69" in the forum "RC Tanks"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11207685

RE: Trying some new gearboxes
Man those are works of art!....How many of your children did you have to sell into slavery for a set fo those?
Posted on: 8/26/2012 2:08 PM by Author "DirtyBird69" in the forum "RC Tanks"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11206703