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Running a Tokyo Marui R/C tank is fun indoors, but to truly appreciate
it you must play with it out on dirt and grass. I live quite far from the nearest park, so when I decide to play outdoors,
I needed suitable protection for my Abrams during transport.
I decided to find a rigid case that is weatherproof, and able to
hold the tank, the transmitter, and any extra tools and supplies I may need along. After searching I settled on a tool box
manufactured by Stanley in their trademark yellow color:
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| The actual Abrams National Stock Number (NSN) is stenciled on the case |
The exterior of the toolbox measures 20 inches long, and 8 inches
tall. Those dimensions were of sufficient space for my purposes, and I quickly set forth to modify it for my use.
Opening the top lid, you can see the upper tool tray. I lined the
surface with blue craft foam to make it easier to see all the accessories I've placed in it. I'll describe the accessories
later.
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| The blue foam lining was attached with CA glue |
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| Under the tool tray safely resides the Abrams tank |
Rather than resting on the bottom of the case, the Abrams tank sits
on a cradle made of Masonite, a stiff particle board. I cut 1 inch thick strips of air conditioning insulation foam and hot-glued
it to the side of the Masonite. The foam holds the tank snugly in place, so it does not shift forward or sideways during transport.
I then attached nylon straps, front and back to make it easier to remove the entire cradle. A plastic box lined with blue
craft foam in front of the tank holds the Tank Commander figurine and machineguns.
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| Rubber strips under the Masonite prevents the cradle from shifting inside the box |
The upper tool tray is integral to protecting the Abrams tank from
damage. The undersides have two large strips of foam hot-glued on. With the tool tray in place, it firmly pushes down on the
turret roof. This protects the Abrams tank should the tool box roll over upside down.
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| A cutout in the tool tray firmly secures the handgrip of the transmitter |
As mentioned earlier, I carry extra tools and supplies should I find
the need to modify the suspension or effect repairs out in the field. Below
is a collection of some of the tools and supplies I carry in the upper tool tray:
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| Spare alkaline batteries for the tank and transmitter, and a battery tester as well |
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| The BB container is flat to better fit in the case, and the nozzle prevents spilling BBs |
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| A wide brush for cleaning the Abrams, and a clip on flashlight is great for night time repairs |
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| #1 Philips screwdriver to open up the tank, and tweezers and pliers to change suspension springs |
The Stanley tool box is a great case to protect Tokyo Marui tanks.
Its large size can hold plenty of tools and supplies, including my photographic equipment and camera. There is also has
a latch to attach a padlock for security. The bottom of the case is rigid, I've attached self adhesive rubber pads so it stays
firmly in place on rough ground. In the future, I may add wheels or even a shoulder strap.
To continue, click on the link below:
Gallery 1
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