Common Radio Controlled Car Upgrading Methods


RC hobbyists have been more and more inclined into tinkering with their radio controlled vehicles; whether in pursuit of learning more about the technicalities of their RC's or saving on maintenance fees. RC enthusiasts are trying to be more adept with the repairs and upgrading needs of their collections.

Since radio controlled cars are no longer considered just kids' toys, but more of an investment of time and money; increasing their value with the addition of new parts or altering some of their mechanical capacities to improve their performance has become the norm.

A hobby-grade RC car is usually the only type of these vehicles that can be upgraded. The installation of a new motor, a better tire or body is commonly what RC aficionados do when upgrading their RC's.

External modifications of an RC car

Indeed, it's the internal parts of a radio controlled car that makes it work. But it would look a lot cooler if you try to improve its external parts, right? The usual "mods" or modifications that RC aficionados do to the external parts of their RC's include repainting, which can be more fun if the owner chooses to have some intricate designs on his RC. Adding some decals with the use of your PC and trusty inkjet printer can also be a good external mod for your RC.

Wheels and tires modifications

It's an option whether an RC car owner just wants to dye the rims of his RC's or would prefer to change the tires altogether. Choosing the right foam tires and/or performance tires to improve the racing capacity of your RC is one trick that an RC enthusiast should never overlook if he or she wants to become his or her own efficient RC handyman.

Nitro or Electric modifications for RC cars

This kind of modification requires an ample amount of "geekiness" really. Not many know which engine to choose if they are into this endeavor. If you're aiming to better the performance of your nitro-powered radio controlled vehicle, installing a tuned pipe is one popular way to do it. Maybe a video tutorial or just any illustrated do-it-yourself RC mod project site can help you.

For those with electric-powered RC's, usually changing the motor will do.

And by the way, usually, radio controlled cars come with upgrade kits when purchased. Think of maximizing these kits first before buying any new tool or upgrade items.

Fuel Powered Radio Controlled Cars For Beginners

If you are looking for a more realistic and thrilling radio controlled car, fuel power is for you. The engine bellows like that of a real car, there are at least two gears available, and you can smell the familiar tang of gas fumes. Some racers claim that it makes you feel like you are really inside the car driving and maneuvering.

For a newbie in radio controlled car racing, below are some of the qualities of fuel powered R/C's that you need to take note of.

1. RTRs or ready to run fuel powered cars are available for purchase. These have not only been assembled by the manufacturers but tuned as well. You can buy one and take it directly to the race track for your speeding pleasure.

2. They can reach awesome speeds. This is much better than the speed you get from an electric powered R/C, which is mainly focused on its instantaneous throttle. You can take advantage of this during distance races where acceleration is not as important as the maximum speed attained.

3. Cleaning a fuel powered radio controlled car requires a bit of effort. You usually need to use solvents and air blowers to get rid of the stains caused by fuel combustion. Aside from that, polishing is also required to remove track dirt and dust.

4. Fuel power provides better performance and longer running times. For a dedicated racer, these are the qualities needed to top distance races and conquer outdoor tracks.
The stronger engine is able to hold up longer and pulls through tough dirt roads. This is also beneficial in the long run as it defends better against normal wear and tear.

5. Skill as a technician is needed to keep your model car in top form. It is much like being your own mechanic. Competent knowledge of the car parts and how they work is needed to maintain maximum performance, fuel efficiency, and full power.

6. Extra precaution must be undertaken with fuel powered radio controlled cars. Because they are heavier and faster than electric powered R/C's, collisions are more fatal.
Real damage can be wrought on you car; ending up with a heap of wreckage is not a fun idea. Along with its greater power comes more force in hits and clashes, bringing more harm not only to your car but also to the other car that it will hit.

For a more lifelike and convincing racing experience, fuel power is recommended. It is like a real car in almost every aspect, except it is scaled down.

Building A RC - It's Easy

Owning and playing with a radio controlled car (also known as RC) can be time consuming, but can generate a lot of fun and satisfaction. RC is a fun hobby for car enthusiasts; in fact, many owners pit their own RCs against other RC owners in a race (or series of races), sometimes with a hefty prize at stake.

RC as a hobby can be for adults and children alike, which is why it is not too surprising to see young kids facing off against much older opposition in RC competitions, and winning. Yes, even young kids spend time and money buying RCs and RC parts. They also build them, so if they can do it, you can too. It's actually really simple.

Practice makes perfect is an old adage. Yet, it holds true, even in building your own RC. The first thing to do is to always check your manual first. Read through the instructions carefully, taking note of the easier things to do and the harder ones so you can plan ahead. It's important to study the manual first before actually doing anything else.

Next, you have to choose a place to build your RC, as well as the tools to use. Choose a building area that is properly lit to avoid any difficulty in seeing, especially the small parts. Problems may arise when they fall or roll away, so it's better if you can see them, so that you will not lose anything.

In choosing your tools, you have to invest in order to reap more benefits. That includes properly sized screwdriver, pliers, etc. It is somewhat difficult to build an RC properly if you are lacking the right tools for the job. Don't forget to use lubricants on the screws, for easier screw insertion.

Finally, build your RC following the instructions in the manual. If you did the first two steps (studying the manual and preparing the building place and tools), then you should not have any problems, or if any, just a few minor ones.

For the radio controller, just make sure to calibrate it by placing the servos on center before installation. For the tires, make sure they are placed properly and do not face different directions.

Your RC is now complete! Have fun with it, race it against other RCs in a friendly match or join in RC competitions to see how it will fare against others.