Overview
The Tamiya Squash Van brings nostalgic 1950s American panel van styling to the exciting world of big-tire monster truck driving. This fun-to-drive vehicle captures the charm of classic American automotive design with its distinctive rounded body lines and retro character. The polycarbonate body shell sits atop the gear-driven 4WD GF-02 chassis, a variant of the popular GF-01 platform designed with a more realistic wheelbase and a frame featuring authentic ladder and pipe motifs.
This limited edition version comes with the body pre-painted in Cobalt Green (PS-54) with White (PS-1) roof and Smoke (PS-31) windows. The wheel arches are pre-cut and body mount holes pre-made, making assembly faster and easier for both beginners and experienced builders. The GF-02 chassis delivers stable off-road performance with its long wheelbase, wide tread, and centrally-positioned motor layout that provides excellent balance across varied terrain.
Key Features
- Pre-painted polycarbonate body in Cobalt Green with White roof and Smoke windows
- Pre-cut wheel arches and pre-made body mount holes
- 1950s American panel van inspired design
- V-Block pattern block tires (122.8mm diameter)
- Ladder and pipe motif frame design for authentic styling
- Motor guard for off-road reliability
- 540 brushed motor and HobbyWing THW 1060 ESC included
- Compatible with 4-wheel steering (4WS) radio systems
Chassis Features
- GF-02 gear-driven 4WD chassis
- Lightweight, durable monocoque frame
- Centrally positioned motor for optimal balance
- Power transmission to front and rear via gears
- Long wheelbase (267mm) for stability
- Wide tread setup (Front 223mm, Rear 221mm)
- Integrated sealed gearboxes to keep stones out
- Front and rear gear differentials
- 4-wheel double wishbone suspension
- Four friction dampers
- Left-positioned steering servo with identical-length tie-rods
- Three gear ratio options: 18.03:1, 16.23:1, 19.09:1
Performance Benefits
- Gear-driven 4WD provides excellent traction on all surfaces
- Long wheelbase and wide tread ensure stable off-road handling
- Sealed gearboxes protect drivetrain from dirt and debris
- Large 122.8mm diameter tires conquer rough terrain easily
- Front and rear differentials enable smooth cornering
- Centrally mounted motor creates balanced weight distribution
- Optional 4WS compatibility adds maneuvering versatility
Usage Notes
- Multi-purpose terrain capability - works on various surfaces
- Pre-painted body requires sticker application and some cutting
- Body post positions compatible with long wheelbase CC-02 chassis
- Kit includes 18T pinion gear; 17T and 20T available separately
- 4WS function requires separately sold 4WS-compatible radio
- Consider upgrading to ball bearings for improved efficiency
Technical Specs
- Scale: 1/10
- Wheelbase: 267mm
- Tread: Front 223mm, Rear 221mm
- Tire Diameter: 122.8mm (V-Block pattern)
- Gear Ratio: 18.03:1 (standard 18T), 16.23:1 (20T), 19.09:1 (17T)
- Drivetrain: Gear-driven 4WD
- Motor: Type 540 brushed
- ESC: HobbyWing THW 1060 included
- Chassis: GF-02
What's Included
- Squash Van pre-painted polycarbonate body
- GF-02 chassis kit
- V-Block pattern block tires (122.8mm)
- Type 540 brushed motor
- HobbyWing THW 1060 Electronic Speed Controller
- 18T pinion gear
- Sticker sheet
- Assembly instruction manual
Needed to Complete
- 2-channel radio transmitter and receiver
- Steering servo
- 7.2-7.4V battery pack
- Compatible battery charger
Summary
The Tamiya Squash Van on the GF-02 chassis delivers retro styling and modern monster truck performance in one charming package. The pre-painted Cobalt Green and White body captures the spirit of 1950s American panel vans while the gear-driven 4WD chassis provides capable off-road performance. With its long wheelbase, wide tread, sealed gearboxes, and big block-pattern tires, this limited edition kit offers fun, stable driving across varied terrain. Whether you're a fan of vintage automotive design or simply want a unique, capable off-roader with personality, the Squash Van delivers nostalgic appeal and modern RC excitement.