We run 3 Mini-Z classes at Tom Thumb Hobbies - stock, modified, and open. We highly recommend all racers have a "stock class" car due to the limited number of modified racers. We created this page to help you get a car "race ready" for our stock class.
When it comes to Mini-Z's there are a lot of options available. You will want to make sure you purchase one that meets our stock class requirement. The only current production Mini-Z that fits into our stock class is the "MR-03 RWD ReadySet". These are Ready To Run cars so all you will need are batteries and a transponder. The stock cars are surprisingly fast and very fun to drive.
Motor: The MR-03 RWD ReadySet cars come standard with a brushed motor. Do not choose a brushless model if you plan on racing in the stock class! Using brushless motors will disqualify you from entering almost every "stock" class nationally. Brushless motors are exclusively reserved for modified cars. The original part number Kyosho brand brushed motor must be used in the stock class. All cars are inspected prior to races.
Differential: ReadySet cars include a gear differential. Modified class drivers are able to choose between gear and ball differentials. Stock class cars must leave what comes in the car.
Motor Location: You should choose a car with the MM (mid motor) Motor Mount type with 98mm wheelbase/body. There are other RM (rear motor) cars with 86mm, 90mm, and 94mm wheelbases, but these do not perform well and do not meet the class requirements.
Tires and Wheels: Each body has it's own specific wheel offset requirements (+0,+1,+2,+3). The front tires are "narrow" (8.5mm) and the rear tires are "wide" (11mm). Typically if you use the stock offset for the body you choose, you won't need to grind away any of the body for clearance. There are however some wheel/tire combinations that will require minor modification to the body for tire clearance. All MR-03 ReadySet cars come with 8.5mm/11mm wide wheels & tires, and those standard sizes must be used in the stock class. 11mm fronts and 14mm rears are only allowed in our "open class".
Mini-Z cars are all powered by 4 AAA size batteries. On average a racer will use about 4 packs (16 batteries) during a race night. The general rule in the stock class is 900mah NiMH rechargeable batteries. No Lipo battieries are allowed in 50/50, spec, or HFAY classes. You could use non rechargeable batteries such as Energizer or Duracell, but the cost of doing so is extremely high. Good options for rechargable batteries are as follows:
Once you have decided on some batteries, you will need a way to charge them. An analyzer is not necessary, but it can be very useful to discover bad batteries. They will also allow you to find batteries with the best performance. There are many chargers available but we have listed a few options below:
We use a lap timing system from I-Lap to time our races. When you install a transponder in your car, we can track your position in a race. Only I-Lap Timing Systems transponders are compatible. We sell the below Mini-Z specific transponders here in the store:
Looking for an all in one starter kit?
More experienced drivers will find that the following commonly used upgrades will give them a slight edge:
Now that you have purchased a car, batteries, charger, and transponder... you are ready to race! Please let us know if you have any questions. We are happy to help!
