Whether
you're eight or eighty, if you love cars and enjoy tinkering with
things,
you'll get hours of fun and excitement from radio controlled cars. But
there
are a host of things involved in getting to the race and, if you're new
to
radio controlled vehicles and racing, you will probably have a lot of
questions.
Our
aim is to answer as many of these questions as we can and to provide
you with
the information you need to help you decide just what to buy. There's a
lot of
choice and, if you're a newcomer, you may need help choosing between on
and
off-road cars and electric and nitro powered vehicles. The more you
know, the
better you'll be able to choose the right vehicle for you.
Most
people don't realize just how exciting this hobby have become - the
hobby
quality models made and raced today can get up to speeds of 60 mph and
feature
suspension systems that can be tuned just like a real car. Perhaps the
most
exciting part is the wide variety of types of vehicle available today.
You can
drive a race car, run a monster truck on dirt tracks or even fly a
plane or helicopter!
Because
of this, you should consider just what you plan to use your cars for
before you
buy. On-road or racing cars are made for speed, while off-road vehicles
like
buggies are designed to take on more rugged terrain. In addition, you
can
choose to buy your cars ready to run out of the box or as a kit to
build
yourself.
There
are radio controlled cars and trucks for every kind of driver. Nitro
engines
for the speed demon, reliable ready to run electric cars for touring
and even
planes to fly. The electric cars run quietly and so are better suited
to run
right in your neighborhood, while the nitro motors give you the real
feel of
the racetrack. What you buy should depend on your experience and you
should
make your choice according to your experience so as to avoid
frustration later
on.
Something
to keep in mind from the outset is that these vehicles are a high-end
hobby,
and can get quite expensive. If you plan to race your car, there are
additional
costs that come with competition. But if you're prepared for the cost,
and if
you choose carefully, you'll be rewarded with an amazing new hobby
whose
rewards certainly outweigh the cost. These are the decisions that need
to be
made before you buy:
- Do you want a ready to run
car or do you want build your own?
- Do you want an on-road or an
off-road vehicle?
- Which is right for you - a
nitro or an electric vehicle?
No
matter what you decide, if you keep your own experience and commitment
level in
mind, you'll be certain to get the car that's right for you.
Whether
you race them or just tinker with their engines, radio controlled cars
are
great for kids of all ages. Though it might seem overwhelming at first,
you'll
find that the more you work on your cars and the more times you race,
the more
fun and exciting this hobby can be!
How
Radio Controlled Cars Work
For a
beginner, the sheer variety of brands and specifications of radio
controlled
vehicles can be overwhelming. There are literally hundreds of radio
controlled
cars and trucks available, all with different engines, performance
levels and
completely customizable details. This puts hobby quality radio
controlled cars
on a very different level from toys and replicas, and is what makes
them so
much more interesting and exciting to play with.
While
the actual mechanics of how each radio controlled vehicle works can
vary
greatly from one to the next, the basic principles remain the same.
Once you
understand how radio controlled cars work, you'll have a better idea of
just
what's involved, and which one would be right for you.
There
are four main parts to a radio controlled vehicle:
- Transmitter: This is the control you
hold in your hand, usually powered by a 9-volt battery. Using radio
frequencies, the transmitter relays the steering and control commands
you give it to the receiver.
- Receiver: There are two parts to the
receiver- an antenna and a circuit board inside the car. The radio
frequencies sent by the transmitter are picked up by the receiver and
relayed to the various parts of the vehicle.
- Motor: Radio controlled cars and
trucks feature a variety of different types of engines, all with
varying degrees of difficulty and output. The motor is often said to be
the heart of the radio controlled car and is the most intricate part of
building your own radio controlled vehicle.
- Power Source: Power is needed for
acceleration, steering and overall engine output. Aside from the 9-volt
battery in the transmitter, the power source depends on the type of
car: electric cars run on rechargeable, replaceable battery packs while
nitro cars use a fuel mixture similar to a real car.
Before
moving on, let's just clear up one point which often causes confusion:
If
you're new to radio controlled cars you might be confused by the terms
"radio" and "remote" controlled cars. Though the two are
often used interchangeably they are not the same thing at all as the
way in
which signals are transmitted to the vehicle is very different. You can
spot a
remote controlled car by the wire connecting the controller to the car.
Radio
controlled vehicles, on the other hand, use radio frequencies to send
messages
from the steering controls on the transmitter to the receiver in the
car.
Electric or
Nitro Radio Controlled Cars
Just
like buying a real car, deciding on a radio controlled car takes
research.
Though all radio controlled cars have the same components -
transmitter,
receiver, motor, and power source - they vary widely in size, type, and
degree
of difficulty.
The
first, most important decision to make is whether you want an electric
or a
nitro powered car. Nitro cars tend to be faster and more powerful,
although
their engines require a lot of maintenance and tuning. Electric cars,
on the
other hand, don't run quite as fast, but they're easier for beginners.
Once
you've decided between an electric or a nitro powered car, you need to
choose
between a car that is ready to run right out of the box and a kit that
you will
need to build yourself. Ready to run cars are easier for beginners
anxious to
get to the race, but the build your own kits give you a better
understanding of
how radio controlled cars work. If you're not sure, keep in mind that
most
ready to run kits still include full instructions should you ever want
to take
your radio controlled car apart or replace some of its parts.
Next,
you need to decide just where you'll be driving the car. Just as you
probably
wouldn't buy a gas guzzling SUV if you live downtown and have a long
commute,
you'll want to make sure you buy the radio controlled car that suits
the kind
of driving you'll be doing.
On-road
radio controlled cars are built for speed, so if its racing and road
running
you have in mind, you'll want to stick to these lighter, faster
vehicles. If
you want to practice on rugged terrain and with jumps, the more rugged
off-road
radio controlled vehicles are probably best for you.
The
last thing to choose is the size and type of radio controlled vehicle
you'd
like. The most popular class of vehicles is 1/10th scale, but there are
also
larger 1/8 scale and smaller mini and micro sized cars. Plus, the best
part is
you get to decide just what kind of radio controlled vehicle you'd like
best—there are cars, trucks, buggies, boats, planes and even
helicopters to choose
from.
Electric Radio
Controlled Cars
Electric
radio controlled cars and trucks are generally considered best for
beginners
since, even if you choose to build your own car, they tend to be
simpler and
easier than nitro powered cars. They're also a great deal quieter and
cleaner,
meaning that there are fewer restrictions on where you can run them. In
terms
of speed and power, they do have a great deal of pickup, though not as
much as
nitro cars.
Electric
radio controlled cars use rechargeable battery packs to power their
motor and
steering and these are normally recharged using a 12-volt car battery
or wall
socket. Batteries run for about 5-10 minutes, depending on the type of
engine
your car has, and charging the battery usually takes 15-30 minutes.
Because of
this, it is strongly recommended you have at least two battery packs to
allow
for quick replacement of the battery. This means that you can keep your
car
running while one battery is recharging.
At
first glance, getting started with an electric radio controlled car can
be much
less expensive than a nitro vehicle. But there are other costs to
consider as
well, such as additional battery packs, a battery charger and other
accessories
that will add to the cost, making it closer to the price of a nitro car
in the
long run. Of course, this cost also depends on what kind of car you end
up
purchasing and what kind of battery pack it requires, as well as how
often you
run the car and the quality of the batteries you get.
The
main reason why electric radio controlled cars are said to be easier
than nitro
powered cars is in the amount of maintenance and tuning their engines
require.
Though the care, maintenance and cost of battery packs is steep, it is
still
less trouble for the new driver than the air filters, tuning, fuelling
and
various other engine parts that require attention on a nitro car.
Instead,
careful conditioning and proper storage of your battery packs will keep
your
electric radio controlled running smoothly for years. Always consult
your
manufacturer's instructions to make sure you're getting the right
battery packs
for your car, and that you're caring for them properly.
Easier
and cleaner, electric radio controlled cars and trucks offer the
genuine racing
experience to the beginner on an easy learning curve. Proper
conditioning and
maintenance of the car and its battery packs are still easier than the
many
parts and problems often associated with nitro radio controlled cars.
If you're
a beginner, or if you just want to get to the races, an electric radio
controlled can offer you the speed and fun you're after for less work.
Also
keep in mind that if you think you'd prefer an electric radio
controlled car,
but still want the experience of building your own car, that you can
also
purchase electric kits. These include complete instructions to build
your own
car from scratch, and because their systems are less complex than the
nitro
cars, they are a little easier to build yourself.
In
order to prevent unnecessary wear and tear on your electric motor, it
is
important to break in your motor before you drive it for the first time
and
every time after you change its brushes. One easy method is to run the
vehicle
with the wheels off of the ground at about 1/4 power for about 5
minutes. This
will slowly get the brushes fully seated to the commutator without
causing wear
and tear on the engine, and will allow your motor to run at its full
potential.
Your
electric car will come with instructions on how to change the brushes
on the
motor, as well as guidelines on how often this should be done.
Remember, if you
change the brushes on your motor, be sure to break it in again. How
often you
replace the brushes - and the motor for that matter - depends on where
and how
much you're running or racing your car. Generally, a motor should be
replaced
after it has gone through five or more pairs of brushes, but it will
always
depend on the individual car, its motor and how well they're running.
Nitro Radio
Controlled Cars
Nitro
radio controlled cars are named for the special type of fuel that gives
them
and their motors such kick. Though not the best choice for beginners,
they are
the choice if speed and power are what you want from your radio
controlled car.
The great popularity of nitro radio controlled cars and trucks is due
not only
to their speed, but is also because of the realism they offer - sights
(smoke),
sounds (tuned pipe) and smells (exhaust) just like the real thing! Over
the
last several years, the quality of nitro radio controlled cars has been
greatly
improved, making them safer and more reliable than in the past.
There
are four defining features of a nitro radio controlled car:
- special nitro fuel
- high horsepower nitro engine
- tuned exhaust pipe
- Realistic, replaceable air
filter.
Two
different power sources are required for a nitro radio controlled car,
starting
with battery packs for the transmitter and receiver. The car itself, as
the
name suggests, really does use gasoline as its fuel: an oil and
gasoline
mixture, much like a real car.
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There
are two kinds of nitro motors - the 2-stroke and the 4 stroke engine.
The
2-stroke engine is similar to the kind of engine found inside motocross
motorcycles and chain saws. This type of engine has no separate oil
reservoirs,
so the oil that lubricates it is included in the fuel mixture.
Conversely,
the less popular 4-stroke engine does have an oil reservoir and depends
less on
a gasoline/oil fuel mixture for lubrication. When running or racing,
the car's
fuel tank will need refilling every 5 to 10 minutes.
The
engine seen most frequently in nitro radio controlled cars today is a
23cc
(cubic centimeter) displacement, 2-stroke engine. Its popularity stems
from the
fact that it's among the most powerful engines available for nitro
radio
controlled cars, putting out approximately 2.5 horse power. This engine
would
certainly be powerful enough to impress you with its speed.
You'll
also need a starter for the engine, of which there are two types:
- a pull-start nitro engine
(these use a process like your lawnmower to start)
- a non-pull nitro engine
(these fire up with a starter box)
The
pull start nitro engines cost a little more, but you don't have to buy
a
starter box and it's less you have to carry around to run your vehicle.
Just
take it out, pull on the starter, and you're ready to go! Be sure to
check your
instructions to choose a starter that's right for your car.
To
keep your nitro radio controlled running at its best, constant
maintenance is
necessary. This includes keeping the engine clean and well-tuned,
setting it up
correctly and using good clean fuel. Also, if you're running your radio
controlled off-road, you'll need to make certain it is properly cleaned
after
you run it, otherwise dirt and grit can slow down or even ruin your
engine. Any
special procedures particular to your car will be outlined in your
owner's manual.
Remember that your engine will only run as long as you treat it well so
take
great care of it.
Fuelling
Nitro Radio Controlled Cars
Nitro
radio controlled cars run on a blended fuel easily available at local
hobby
shops or online. It is made up of methyl alcohol (methanol),
nitro-methane
(nitro) and oil. In order to understand how nitro fuel work, you need
to know
what each of these three components does for the car:
- Methanol provides the main
power to the engine and is the main ingredient in model fuel. It has an
ignition point that allows it to be ignited with the kinds of
platinum-element glow plugs used in radio controlled engines, and it
releases more energy per pound of air than gasoline. It's easy to get,
it's not expensive and you'll find model fuel much more reasonably
priced than regular gas.
- Nitro-methane is added to
assist the idle and acceleration and to enhance power output. Nitro is
referred to as a “hot fuel” and is only used in
small amounts in model fuels. It can be explosive if not handled
correctly, so take care to read the fuel tips offered here, and always
follow the manufacturer's instructions when filling up your radio
controlled car.
- Oil is needed as a source of
lubricant for all the moving parts in the engine. Here 2-stroke and
4-stroke engines will require different fuels, since 2-stroke engines
have no separate oil reservoir and need oil mixed in with their fuel.
There are two types of oil found in model fuels - castor oil and
synthetic oil. These can be used by themselves or in a blend, with
synthetics being far more common these days. This is mainly because
synthetics are cheaper and less gummy than castor oil. For some
engines, a blend with a large percentage of castor oil may work best,
since it is actually a better lubricant at higher temperatures. The
synthetics are far less messy, however, and leave less gum on your
engine. You'll be able to choose from blends of synthetic and castor
oil that vary in their percentages, so try out a few to find one that
runs your engine best.
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Fuel
blends are expressed in percentages based on the amount of each
component
ingredient used, and of course the one right for you will depend
greatly on
your car and engine. Most model fuels contain mainly methanol, to which
about
20-22% oil and 10-15% nitro is added.
Be
sure to check your owner's manual for suggestions and guidelines about
which
blend is correct. Bear in mind that you may have to try out a couple of
different types and blends before you find the one that's right for the
way
your engine is tuned. And if your engine isn't running properly, one of
the
first things you should do is change the fuel.
Taking
proper care of your nitro car's fuel is extremely important. Not only
will it
help your car run better and make for less wear on the engine, model
fuels are
flammable and could be dangerous if not properly stored.
- Nitro fuel should not be
stored in unsealed containers. Because methanol mixes easily with
water, the container you store it in should be completely air tight.
Otherwise, air could get in and evaporation or condensation could
occur, ruining the fuel. It will cause your engine to run too hot and
be quite damaging to your car's fuel and exhaust systems.
- Store your fuel at room
temperature, and at a constant temperature. Again, you want to avoid
any air in your container or in the fuel, which temperature swings can
cause to condense. Do not store your model fuel in a room in which the
temperature varies widely.
- Keep model fuel away from
light. Nitro methane degrades in light, which means you need to store
your model fuel in a cool, dark place. If you leave it exposed to
sunlight or store it in a brightly lit place, the nitro will degrade
completely, as though it hadn't even been added to the fuel in the
first place. This will cause your engine to run very poorly, or cause
poor starts or stalling.
- Do not store fuel more than
a year. In addition to following all these steps, you must also replace
your model fuel frequently. Though proper storage will keep your fuel
fresh and running clean, it cannot be stored for years and years. Most
manufacturers offer some guarantees on their fuel, but these will not
apply if you have stored it for an extended period of time. Most
importantly, old fuel can be dangerous, so don't leave it stored
indefinitely.
Nitro Radio
Controlled Car Engines
Nitro Engines:
2-Stroke
The
2-stroke is the engine most commonly found in nitro radio controlled
cars. The
"Stroke" of the engine refers to the number of times that the piston
travels through the engine sleeve in the combustion chamber. 2-stroke
engines
produce power in one cycle, which is divided into the two "strokes".
The piston has two positions: top dead center where the cycle begins
and ends,
and bottom dead center, which is the middle point of the power cycle.
Combustion causes increased pressure in the chamber and forces the
piston down.
As this occurs, the exhaust ports are opened so gases can escape
through the
manifold. The second stroke begins when the piston reaches bottom dead
center
and then moves back up the engine sleeve. This causes the pressure to
build up
again as the piston approaches top dead center once again, completing
the power
cycle. The next stroke occurs as soon as combustion from the glow plug
sparks
it again.
Nitro Engines:
4-Stroke
Less
common but more powerful, 4-stroke engines are more like what you'll
find under
the hood of your real car or your lawnmower. Though similar to a
2-stroke, a
4-stroke engine has 2 full cycles with 2 strokes of the piston each
(for a
total of 4 strokes). Unlike the simpler glow-plug ignition that a
2-stroke
uses, a 4-stroke regulates the air and fuel in the chamber with a
geared cam
mechanism. Intake timing is how much and when this air/fuel mixture
enters the
cylinder, while exhaust timing refers to the escape of hot gas from the
cylinder.
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The
easiest way to understand what happens in the 4-stroke power cycle is
imagine
the 2-stroke cycle simply stretched out to get the most out of each
segment of
the piston's movement. The piston begins at top dead center and as it
travels
down the cylinder the geared cam allows fuel and air into the
combustion
chamber.
The
intake valve closes when the piston reaches the bottom of the cylinder,
which
is then forced back up by the flywheel and drive train components. This
compresses the air and fuel, and the pressure causes combustion as the
piston
reaches the top of the cylinder again, completing what is referred to
as the
compression stroke.
As
the fuel mixture ignites it initiates the so-called combustion-stroke,
during
which the piston travels back down the cylinder and up again. In the
final
"power" stroke the gases are forced out to the exhaust systems, just
as in the 2-stroke engine. The cycle is then repeated.
4-stroke
engines rely on intake and exhaust valves to complete their power
cycle. This
is combined with a number of other features - a moving crankshaft,
several
valve-train components, camshaft, rod and pistons and the geared cam
mechanism
- to make a more powerful, but more advanced engine. The improved
management of
fuel and air flow in and out of the engine makes the 4-stroke more
efficient,
though their advanced mechanisms mean they require meticulous attention
and
maintenance.
Nitro Radio
Controlled Car Maintenance
So
now that you know what's under the hood of your radio controlled, there
are few
more tips that will help your car run better:
- Improve your acceleration by
proper preparation of your clutch. Over time, a glaze can form on the
clutch and the clutch bell, which causes the car's acceleration to
decrease noticeably. Scuffing both the clutch shoes and the clutch bell
with fine-grit sandpaper or steel wool and a good cleaning with
motor-spray will remove this glaze, and prevent the clutch from
slipping against the clutch bell.
- Extend the life of your
car's differential by breaking your motor in gently. Your car's
differential is filled with small, complicated gears that make it both
complicated and expensive. This is not a part you want to replace
frequently, but carefully breaking in your car before racing or running
it full out can greatly extend the differential's lifespan. To break in
your engine, run it at 1/4 power a few inches off the ground, and then
run some slow, steadily powered figure 8s. This should set the gears in
the differential and you can run it full out without damaging the
engine.
- Make sure you keep your
header in position. Your car's header is attached with a tiny spring,
meaning it comes off very easily if you hit something or if your car
gets hit by something. If you're racing it can be a huge problem to put
this back on in a hurry, so be sure to attach your header to the engine
block more firmly using a small piece of safety wire. Make sure you
twist the wire firmly around the header and be sure to cut off any
excess.
- Brace your air filter to
prevent losing or damaging it. The small piece of the same safety wire
that secures your header should also be used brace your filter. Again,
twist it tightly to prevent the filter from becoming loose and remove
any excess wire.
- Protect your pull-start cord
from fraying and breaking. Over time, the cord of a pull-start engine
can often become worn and frayed. This can be prevented by covering the
edges of the opening. Try using duct tape or cutting up a small section
of fuel tubing. Make sure not to obstruct the opening, but rather
create a smoother edge to the opening for the cord get in and out of
with out fraying. Never leave your pull start cord pulled all the way
out- if this happens, it could get stiff or be impossible to reinsert
it.
- Follow your manufacturer's
instructions for the best results. Your car will come with complete
instructions and owner's manual, which you should read carefully.
Should you run into something you can't fix or an engine that simply
won't run properly (or at all!), it's best to consult your local hobby
shop for some expert advice and help.
There's
nothing like the realistic roar and smoke of a nitro radio controlled
car which
is fast and powerful enough to make for some exciting racing. Bear in
mind,
however, that nitro cars and the engines that power them are very
complex and
require frequent tuning and meticulous care - much more so than an
electric radio
controlled car. Because of their greater complexity, you will also find
nitro
cars tend to be more expensive. What this means to you as a driver is
that you
need to decide in advance what your budget is and just how experienced
you are
with engines and radio controlled racing.
If
you're beginner but you still have your heart set on a nitro car, they
can be
purchased in ready to run versions that will get you in the race as
soon as you
open the box. Although these still require the same ongoing attention
and
maintenance, you will be saved the initial trouble of building the car
from
scratch.
Ready
to run nitro cars and trucks are more expensive than the ones you build
yourself, but they're far easier if you're still unsure of your
mechanic
ability. Also, since even ready to run kits contain complete
instructions on
how they go together, you can rest assured you'll be able to repair,
maintain
and add to your car for a long time to come.
The
main attraction of nitro radio controlled cars is their realism and
their
power. They're fast, they roar and they smoke just like real cars! They
can be
tuned to reach speeds of up to 60 mph and they can race as long as you
keep
filling the gas tank. Though not recommended for complete newcomers to
radio
controlled racing, nitro radio controlled cars are by far the most
popular
option.
Ready to Run
Radio Controlled Cars
If
you are a complete newcomer to radio controlled cars and racing, this
is
definitely something you should consider for your first radio
controlled
vehicle. Ready to run radio controlled cars are a little more
expensive, but
they require little or no assembly.
For
younger drivers not quite ready for the
building portion of radio controlled cars, or for drivers who simply
want to
get to the race, there are a wide variety of ready to run nitro and
electric
radio controlled vehicles from which to choose.
Some
manufacturers ship their ready to run kits without the receiver
installed. If
this is the case, they will provide complete instructions on just how
to
position the circuit board inside the car. This, in addition to slowly
breaking
in the engine, is the only thing ready to run kits ever need before
they’re
ready to race.
Ready
to run radio controlled cars usually come with complete instructions,
so if you
need to tear down your car at any point to replace parts, you can. They
simply
save you the initial work of putting them together, which for beginners
is
often overwhelming. If you’re completely new to radio
controlled vehicles and
unsure about your mechanic ability, you’ll definitely want to
make your first
radio controlled car something that comes ready to run.
Build Your
Own Radio Controlled Cars
If
you don't mind getting dirty and like to tinker with things, you'll
definitely
want to consider building your own radio controlled vehicle.
Build
your own kits are complex and time
consuming, but when it comes time for maintenance and repairs, nothing
compares
to knowing your radio controlled car from the inside out. Though it is
initially more difficult, you'll find that the experience comes in
handy down
the road when you want to change engines, or simply change the air
filter.
Also,
if you want to save money, you'll definitely want a build your own kit.
Also,
by building your own car you will often get a better model. Other
costs, such
as batteries and fuel, are the same whether you build your own radio
controlled
car or choose a ready to run kit.
The
length of time it takes to build your radio controlled car and just how
difficult it is depends on the car, the manufacturer and your
experience. Build
your own kits feature complete, step-by-step, illustrated instructions
that
walk you through the process. Follow these instructions carefully, and
do not
expect to build your car in one sitting. Breaks will help you
concentrate
better and make fewer mistakes.
Before
you begin, consult the following checklist to make sure you've got
everything
you need to get your radio controlled up and running:
- Your car's instruction
manual. Read it over first! Before you begin assembling your radio
controlled, you should read through the instructions in order to
anticipate difficult steps and head off potential disaster or wasted
time later on. Take care not to get ahead or skip steps, as this could
result in needing to start over again.
- A notepad and pencil. In
addition to making important notes in your instruction manual, you will
also want to keep track of screw positions and settings. Pay special
attention to lefts and rights, fronts and rears. Though these are
usually marked on the parts themselves, you may need to make additional
notes to make sure you get them right.
- A well-lit, uncluttered
building area. This should include a clean dry towel to prevent parts
from bouncing and rolling, it will protect your bench (or the kitchen
table) and it will absorb any liquid you spill. Be careful not to set
up your "pit" in a place that could be disturbed, such as in reach of
younger brothers and sisters. Cover your work with a cloth or towel
when you're not there to prevent any lost pieces. Finally, make sure
there is ample light.
- Hardware trays. It is
recommended to keep your small parts in a container of some sort, use
take-out container lids, fishing-tackle boxes or muffin tins to keep
things organized. When you're building, be sure to keep everything
sorted and separate.
- A small but select set of
tools. You'll need a basic but good set of tools, including:
- Screwdriver: Nos. 1 and 2
Phillips-head drivers, a 1 ¼ inch flat-blade screwdriver and
a set of jeweller's screwdrivers are considered sufficient.
- Pliers: Pairs of slip-joint
and needle-nose pliers are necessary, and nitro models may require
channel-lock pliers for holding flywheels.
- Flush cutters: These are
best for the fuel lines and other parts that require a close, clean cut.
- Hobby knife, no. 11 blades:
Blades should be replaced often and the knife should always be used
carefully and with supervision for younger drivers.
- Soap, extra fuel tubing. A
bar of soap can be used as a clean, dry lubricant for pieces that fit
tightly or which fit through tight spots. Extra fuel tubing is useful
for a number of things, like on the end of your screw driver to hold
the screw in place while you get it into position.
- Patience. More than
anything, this is the biggest challenge; especially if this is your
first build your own radio controlled car. Following the illustrations
closely and making sure you don't rush or skip steps is the best way to
ensure success. Above all, be patient—building an radio
controlled car from the ground up is tricky time-consuming business
that will only result in error and frustration if you rush it.
If
you choose to build your own radio controlled car or truck, it can be
very
rewarding, but bear in mind that it is quite difficult. Though electric
radio
controlled cars are slightly easier to build than their nitro
counterparts, it
is still strongly recommended that new drivers gain experience running
and
maintaining a ready to run radio controlled before they attempt to
build one
from scratch.
Types of
Radio Controlled Cars
So
you've you decided you like the simplicity of the electric
radio controlled car or the realistic sights and sounds of the nitro
class. Now
the next decision is just what type of radio controlled vehicle is best
for
you. Choose according to what you plan to do with your radio controlled
car and
on your level of experience.
On-Road
On-road
cars are the most popular type of radio controlled car.
The standard for on-road cars is 1/10 scale cars, though 1/8 scale cars
are not
uncommon. The recent increase in micro and mini cars means there are
hobby
quality on-road cars which are now as small as 1/18 scale.
Both
nitro and electric radio controlled cars come in on-road
versions, and are available ready to run or as build your own kits.
Built and
geared for speed, an on-road radio controlled should be your choice if
you plan
to race your car. Touring cars need a smooth, paved surface on which to
run
though even running up and down the street you'll be amazed by their
speed.
Off-Road
If
you want to be able to run your radio controlled car just about
anywhere, you'll definitely need the rugged construction of an off-road
vehicle. These sturdy cars and trucks will handle jumps, uneven
terrain, hills
and even sand. They come in two or four-wheel drive versions, and are
perfectly
capable of driving in your back yard, a vacant lot or just about
anywhere.
Like
their on-road counterparts, off-road radio controlled cars
can be purchased ready to run or as build your own kits and there is a
wide
variety of both electric and nitro cars and trucks from which to
choose.
Off-road radio controlled cars, though not the fastest cars available,
are
durable, rugged and can be run practically anywhere.
Cars
The
touring and racing cars are perhaps the most common type of
radio controlled vehicle. The wide variety of styles and cars in both
electric
and nitro kits makes them an easy choice for the beginner, and the
higher end
build your own models can be great for advanced hobbyists. Lightweight
and
fast, these are the ideal racers.
Trucks
If
off-roading and rugged, sturdy vehicles were what you had in
mind, then a truck is likely to be the radio controlled vehicle for
you. Both
electric and nitro monster trucks are fast and tough for running
off-road
courses. The ready to run radio controlled trucks would be suitable for
beginners.
Buggies
These
durable little vehicles are powerful enough to handle on and
off-road terrains with speeds of up to 60 mph. usually only available
in nitro kits;
they are a lot to handle for a beginner.
Airplanes
Radio
controlled flyers are amongst the most popular and exciting
radio controlled vehicles. Electric and ready to run versions are the
most
accessible for the beginner, though of course there are nitro and build
your
own versions to allow for growth and customization.
Radio
controlled airplanes are extremely light weight, and can be
made to fly at very low speeds. The electric versions are also quiet
enough to
be run in a school yard. This makes them a great option for someone new
to the
radio controlled scene, though there are fewer competitions for this
type of
radio controlled vehicle.
Helicopters
Though
a little too complicated the beginner, radio controlled
helicopters are exciting and challenging to fly. They are usually run
on gas,
and can be great fun for the experienced flyer.
Boats
and Watercraft
Available
in both electric and nitro powered versions, radio
controlled boats are not usually ready to run. The need for
waterproofing adds
an additional level of difficulty and, though they are not recommended
for
beginners, those familiar with the workings of radio controlled
vehicles will
find boats and other watercraft the most fun of all to build and race.
Radio
Controlled Car Sizes
Standard,
Micro or Mini?
Next,
now what you know what type of radio controlled you want, you need to
decide
what scale it will be in. Hobby quality radio controlled cars come in a
few
different sizes: as small as 1/18 scale and as large as 1/8 scale.
Nitro and
electric cars are usually made at the industry standard 1/10 scale.
This can be
confusing for a newcomer but, if you're in any doubt about the size of
the
radio controlled vehicle you're interested in, just call in at your
local hobby
shop and make sure it's what you want before you buy.
To
give you an idea of the variety available when it comes to scale, this
is a
brief rundown of the sizes of nitro radio controlled cars on the market
today:
- 1/10 scale touring cars:
Engine powered touring cars can be extremely fast, reaching speeds of
up to 55mph. As with electric touring cars, nitro vehicles feature 4WD
and realistic body lines and are only meant for on-road use.
- 1/10 scale stadium trucks:
Nitro stadium trucks are identical to electric stadium trucks, except
for the engine power. They're suitable for racing or recreation, on or
off road, averaging a peak speed of about 30mph.
- 1/8 scale monster trucks:
These monsters are equipped with major horsepower. Consequently, they
can travel on-road and off-road up to 40 mph, tearing through and over
anything in its path!
- 1/8 scale buggies: Similar
to other 1/8 scale vehicles, they have the power to traverse rough
terrain on-road and off-road, are very durable, and travel up to 60mph.
- 1/8 scale on-road cars: The
revolution of radio controlled performance, these vehicles reach speeds
of close to 80mph, coming standard with shifting 2- or 3-speed
transmission. Intended for experienced enthusiasts, their foam tires
provide tremendous grip, and they are suitable for smooth on-road
courses only.
Radio
controlled Micro and Mini Cars
The
most recent development in radio controlled cars has been the
introduction of
micro and mini-sized vehicles from Japan and throughout Asia. These
tiny but
powerful little radio controlled cars offer the same racing excitement
as the
big boys for only a fraction of the cost.
Only
recently introduced to the North American market from Asia by companies
like
Radio Shack, micro radio controlled cars offer an extremely low
price-point for
out-of-the-box racing fun. Priced at $50 or less, these are a great
choice for
a driver not ready for a full-sized radio controlled car or a newcomer
to radio
controlled racing who wants to see what all the fuss is about.
Measuring
only 2 1/2 inches long, micro radio controlled cars feature the same
kind of
motor that makes your cell phone vibrate. Best of all, these little
engines are
interchangeable, so you can tweak your micro vehicle with a different
motor for
more speed. Specialty tires and hubcaps can be added to customize the
look of
your micro car, as well as enhancements to the torsion and steering
controls.
Mini
and micro radio controlled cars are always ready to run, right out of
the box.
Your little vehicle will come with the following:
- rubber non-stick tires
- micro scale working engine
- realistic, running chassis
- receiver and circuit board
- transmitter
- customizable body
The
greatest advantage these little cars offer is their versatility. Unlike
the
noisy, smoky nitro cars, or the load hum of an electric race, micro
radio
controlled cars are clean and quiet. They can be run indoors or out,
even in
your garage or basement. This means you don't have to wait until the
next race
to run your car.
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Mini
radio controlled cars, like their standard-sized electric cousins, run
on
rechargeable battery packs. When your car is out of juice, it usually
pops into
the controller itself, which is then plugged into the wall. With your
transmitter doubling as your charger, your car will be ready to race
again in
under a minute. If you want to race longer, the fast recharge time for
these
tiny vehicles is a great selling point.
Overall,
though they are not as customizable and intricate as the larger 1/10
and 1/8
scale cars and trucks, micro and mini radio controlled cars have the
same
acceleration, controls and feel. Their tiny size makes it possible to
run them
anywhere from your garage to the kitchen floor so you can race any time
you
like - down the hall or up the street!
For
about a quarter of the cost of a regular radio controlled car you get a
car
with responsive controls, tuneable suspension and customizable
exterior. But,
like their larger counterparts, you can still get the kind of car
you're after.
Mini and micro versions of all the most popular vehicles are available.
They're
the ideal option if you're on a limited budget, but are still eager to
get to
the race.
The Cost of
Radio Controlled Cars
In
comparison with some other hobbies, radio controlled cars can get
somewhat
expensive, depending on your level of commitment to it.
Even
if you build your own radio controlled
car or truck and save the cost of the ready to run kits, additional
parts and
fuel and battery packs can add up, not to mention the entry fees for
races if
you plan to compete.
But beware
of the widely available cheaper versions which claim to be
good quality
radio controlled vehicles.
These
break easily and cannot be repaired like hobby-quality radio controlled
cars,
which can be maintained to run smoothly for years and fixed properly if
anything ever goes wrong.
Expect
to spend at least $280.00 per vehicle initially, with a more complete
beginner
setup costing about $450.
Running and
Racing Radio Controlled Cars
Proper
maintenance of your radio controlled vehicle is the key to achieving
the best
possible results. While the car may still perform while not in its best
form,
you can be assured that keeping it in good order will ensure the best
results.
By keeping your car clean, well-tuned and properly maintained, you can
be sure
you'll get the top performance out of your radio controlled car.
Before
you head out to the track there are a few suggestions that you should
follow to
make sure everything goes smoothly on race day:
- Mark your initials on all
your car's parts. It's frenetic and exciting in the pit, which means in
the haste of repair, refueling and racing, it can be very difficult to
tell which parts belong to which racer. This difficulty is compounded
by the fact that a lot of parts from different makes and models look
remarkably similar. Avoid confusion by marking all your car's parts
with your initials and take care to keep track of those parts on race
day.
- Mark your initials on all
your tools and equipment. Use a marker to write your initials on all
your tools and equipment to avoid mix ups and losses. Over time you'll
spend a great deal of time and energy completing the set of tools and
gear you need for your car—so be careful with your equipment.
Marking your name on your tools makes it more likely you'll get them
back if you lose them, and prevents confusion in the event that several
racers are using the same tools.
- If you have a nitro radio
controlled car always use fresh fuel and bring plenty extra. Model fuel
should not be stored for extended periods of time since the nitro
methane it contains can degrade over time if exposed to air or water.
Old fuel should be disposed of properly, and you should always race
with fresh, clean fuel. Make sure you use a brand you are familiar with
in competition: a race is not the place to test a new type of fuel.
You'll want to know how much running time the fuel you're using
produces and bring plenty extra to re-fill your car's tank.
- If you have an electric
radio controlled car your batteries are the most important thing on
race day. How your electric car does on race day depends entirely on
your battery packs. Be sure to follow your manufacturer's instructions
on how to properly condition your batteries to extend their life and
get maximum performance from them. When you're racing, you'll want to
have several battery packs so that when one runs out, you don't have to
wait to recharge it. You need to know your car's running time per
battery pack in advance so you can count on how many battery packs you
need to bring, and whether your charger can charge them up quickly
enough between races.
- Develop a race-day checklist
for your car's systems and your tools. Well prepared racers go through
the same list of checks on their car and all its systems every time
they race. Develop this list at home when you prepare your car for race
day and include important reminders like securing fuel lines, checking
gaskets, testing the glow plug, making sure the gas tank isn't
rattling. Test runs will help you know what to look for, and what to
double check on the day of the race. Remember to add any equipment you
need to fix these day to day problems to your tool box on race day,
just in case you need them.
- Be respectful of other
racers in the pit and on the track. There is nothing like the roar of
an radio controlled race, but excitement and exhilaration are no excuse
for poor sportsmanship. Always be respectful of other racers and their
equipment. In the event of an accident, remove your car from the track
as quickly as possible. If you have complaints or disputes they should
be brought to the race officials immediately and all judges decisions
should be accepted as final. In the pit be courteous to other racers by
keeping track of all your tools and equipment. Labeling your gear and
keeping track of all of your belongings while you're racing and
marshalling will ensure that there are no problems with other drivers
and their equipment. Remember space is limited!
Where to
Race Radio Controlled Cars
Radio
controlled cars generally need a paved surface to run on, so open
parking lots
of schools, churches, and office areas provide plenty of space to play
on. If
you're racing or practicing on someone else's property, it is extremely
important to ask their permission first. And, if there are younger
children out
running their cars or watching, make sure there is proper supervision.
With
radio controlled trucks, the type of surface doesn't matter as much,
since they
can be driven on pavement, dirt, gravel and all types of ground. Even
long
grass can be tackled - though only for short periods of time. Open
fields, vacant
lots, and construction yards are perfect places to run or race, as long
as it's
safe and you have permission.
Though
many people enjoy simply running their
car by themselves up the street, this can be made infinitely more fun
by
practicing and racing with others. Setting up pylons easily turns an
empty
parking lot into a racetrack, while a vacant lot can be host to a
tug-of-war.
If
you prefer off-roading or a more rugged challenge for your vehicle, you
can
construct your own jumps in a field, yard or lot. Scraps of wood or
cardboard
can be used to make ramps and jumps or challenging obstacle courses.
Off-road
radio controlled vehicles have a lot of power, but don't overestimate
their
torque when you construct your track. Make sure that if there are
younger
children playing you have proper supervision.
But
if you prefer official races, they're held often enough that you can be
racing
every few months. For some hobbyists there's nothing that compares to
radio
controlled car racing. Most race areas are on-road (paved) tracks,
usually in
unused parking lots. Other locations are off-road, featuring all-dirt
surfaces
with lanes separated by boards or plastic pipe. Most metropolitan areas
have a
race track nearby. To find the racetrack nearest you, start with the
internet
and the yellow pages.
Radio
Controlled Truck Pull
One
of the most fun things you can do with radio controlled trucks
especially is to
participate in a truck pull. For the best performance possible, it's
best to
become part of a team, not only for the social factor, but also because
team
associated radio controlled trucks are known for their durability,
power,
race-ability and reliability as they combine experience, knowledge and
parts to
make the best possible vehicles out there.
If
you're looking to participate in a radio
controlled truck pull, you should begin looking into a truck that runs
on a
nitro engine, as they are certainly the most powerful and long-running.
Electric
versions of truck-pull caliber trucks do exist, but for those
interested in
serious competition, nitro engines provide the right amount of power.
Since
nitro gas powered trucks have been on the market for over 15 years,
they have
had ample time for perfection and adaptation to the unique requirements
of a
truck pull.
If
you become a part of a team, the odds are that you will be using kits
to design
your vehicle. This takes patience, especially for beginners, but with
enough
practice, it becomes easy to alter and add to your radio controlled
truck. Once
your vehicle is complete, don't for a moment think that it is finished,
as you
will be continuously upgrading and updating your truck to keep it
competitive
with the other radio controlled truck pull participants. Adding new
parts all
the time to an older kit can give it a new life at a much lower cost.
Radio
controlled truck pulls can be extremely challenging. They come in
different
levels, terrains and courses, depending on the organization that has
assembled
the track.
