Monday, December 22, 2008
Classic Radio Control Models And More
Chevy RCs are definitely more for the collector than the racer, unless you custom-make your RC racer to have the body of a Chevy, that is. Let's take a look at some of the more popular Chevy RCs:
Muscle Machines 1957 Chevrolet
This comes in pretty big at a 1:8 scale and is truly a classic. Accessories included are the charger, battery pack, and features working headlights, a decidedly detailed interior, custom wheels, and super glossy paint. Average price for RC for Chevrolet is between $60-$80. Other Chevy Muscle Machine models available are the 71 Camaro and the Camaro Z28, also in 1:8 scale and similarly priced to the 1957 Chevrolet.
1969 Chevy Camaro Z28 RC Electric Car
Made by Playmaker Toys, this 1969 Camaro model is produced at a 1:18 scale and features working head and tail lights, and is a four-function car (as in forward, backward, left, and right). This is definitely for the real Chevy collectors out there, and at $30-$40, it's not a bad deal at all.
1998 Chevrolet Corvette GTS IR Control Mini RC Car
For the mini RC fans out there, this Chevy is for you. It features a body that is all metal, racing tires made of rubber, and a miniature Corvette engine. The remote control wristwatch doubles as just that, a watch, and the mini RC car itself claims to mimic everything that its real nemesis does; this is probably because General Motors itself is said to have licensed this baby as a true 1:32 mini RC. This has a MSRP of $49.95 to $69.95 but can be bought at less than half that price at many online hobby stores.
Chevy truck models are also available as RCs - such as the Chevy SSR RC Truck and the Chevy 4x4 Monster Truck. Average prices for RC trucks are a little over $100, but if you're lucky, some websites have them on sale for as much as 50% off.
Many Chevy owners who have at one point in their lives owned a classic are thrilled when they find model RCs that resemble the very cars they once owned. So, whether you're just a beginning collector of classics, or if you're a seasoned collector looking to expand your line of cars, then the Chevy is definitely the way to go.
you may be interested in reading my other guide: Best RC Car and RC Car Business
Friday, December 12, 2008
Starting A Remote Controlled Car Business
However, if your passion is for this hobby, and you know where to find other people with this same passion, then you have, at least, the first qualification of a good RC businessman.
If you are considering opening a remote-controlled car shop, then consider the following while planning the course of your business.
1. Passion. This is the most important question you must ask yourself before starting a remote controlled car business. Do you have the passion for remote controlled cars? While it is possible to still start this business even if you do not have much of a passion for this hobby, an innate love for RCs definitely helps.
This is because as a remote controlled car fanatic yourself, you will be aware of the latest innovations in the hobby. This is knowledge you could incorporate into your business.
You will also be keenly aware of the needs of the enthusiasts - be they beginners or experienced. Knowing what your market wants also gives you a great advantage on knowing what they need. And filling their needs is what makes a good business tick.
2. Associations. It would be great if you knew your market. If you have contacts with a few RC associations then that would be great. You would have a virtual gold mine of potential customers to help keep your business afloat. Always keep yourself in the know regarding the latest in radio controlled technology and try to keep abreast of all the new developments.
This way your shop becomes more than just a place to sell remote controlled cars; it also becomes a place to sell the idea of having fun with remote controlled cars.
3. Producers. As a retailer, your first goal is to find a wholesaler of remote controlled car parts, models, and stocks. Make sure you find out which wholesalers give the best prices and the best terms. Make sure you stock up on the most popular parts around. But don't forget to get a controlled amount of pretty much everything else just to make sure your store is comprehensive.
4. Business Sense. Business sense is important in any business. You should learn how to take inventory of your stock, anticipate demand for certain parts, and keep the ratio between supply and demand stable. Also, you should keep good accounting records of your cash inflow and your expenses.
you may be interested in reading my other guide: Buying RC and Upgrading
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Saving Money On Buying Radio Controlled Parts
The RC Car is often referred to as a miniature version of the real thing. When the toy gets broken due to wear and tear, the person has the choice of replacing it with the same parts or upgrading; making it better than it was before.
Most radio-controlled parts regardless of the name of the manufacturer are compatible with each other. If the individual needs to change the battery and finds the original to be expensive, it can be changed for something similar at a lower price. The customer must simply determine if the toy's performance is the same or will be better after the switch has been made.
But what should the hobbyist do if the item needed in the specialty store is expensive? Then its time to be resourceful and look elsewhere so that the radio-controlled car can still be used. Here are three places worth checking out to make that toy run again.
1. The first place to check is the electronics' store. This is because the establishment has wires, batteries and other electronic gadgets that can make the radio controlled cars work. The hobbyist should just ask the assistance of a sales clerk to will help get the right parts and even connect it/them properly to prevent the toy from short-circuiting.
2. Another place worth checking out is the Internet. There are some websites that sell these spare parts. The individual should buy two pieces so there is a spare and keep the contact number just in case another item will be needed in the future.
3. People will rarely find RC car parts in the classified ads of the newspaper. The person will have better luck checking out specialty magazines that feature these products.
Some of these items listed may be cheap because they are pre-owned. It would be a good idea to meet the seller in person so this can be checked before any payment is made.
As long as there is a market for RC cars, hobbyists can be sure of an ample supply of spare parts. The hobbyist can pay a lot for these by going to a store or save some money by looking elsewhere to get these goods.
you may be interested in reading this too: Drag Racing and Repairing RC Car
Friday, October 31, 2008
Tips For Drag Racing With Radio Controlled (RC) Cars
Drag racing is all about speed. As compared to ordinary RC car races, the drag racing with RC cars entails much more attention on setting-up the vehicle than having driving skills. The main deal with car racing is to eliminate the forces (aerodynamic) that prevent the car from attaining and maintaining maximum speed. The following things should be given much importance when racing RC cars at maximum speed:
Chassis
Getting and maintaining a good chassis for drag race RC cars is very important. The thing to remember is that there are numerous materials that make up modern RC drag cars today such as graphite and carbon fiber. They differ in how they support the cars and how they "flex" during acceleration. The chassis needs to have flexibility when accelerating is a key to attain the car's maximum speed.
Front end design
RC car dragsters have distinct front-end designs. They are usually pointed to minimize the drag from the air. The front axles should be set up in a simple way to make them easier to adjust during accidents during race day.
Battery packs
Usually, RC car drag races are determined by the kind of battery pack that the cars are equipped with. Nickel-cadmium batteries are very popular nowadays. The batteries used in cars are usually in 6-cell or 7-cell packs. The two main things that one should look for in battery packs are internal impedance and voltage. These are two main indicators of power and speed. The battery packs used in RC drag racing are perhaps the most powerful in the whole RC racing arena.
Tires
For RC drag race, the usual dragsters employ thin front wheels which are most often referred to as "pizza cutters" because they resemble the kitchen apparatus. When it comes to selecting tires, there are two beliefs: smaller is better and the "big wheels rule." As with any other contradicting beliefs, both have advantages and disadvantages. At the end of the day, it's personal taste that really counts in choosing the kinds of tires.
Weight
RC drag race cars have been stripped of their excess weight throughout the years. An optimum weight should be achieved to be able to get maximum acceleration.
RC drag racing is a really fun and exhilarating experience. One should try watching races over the weekend to find out.
Also, check out my other guide on RC Car Upgrading and Buy RC Car
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Taking Care of Radio Control Car Parts
1. Most radio controlled cars have bushings made either of plastic or bronze. These are designed to take on the negative effects of friction when driving on the racetrack. It is advisable to replace these with balls bearings instead since these have proven to be more durable that the latter.
People who do this don't have to change them very often and will notice that the RC car is able to maintain its speed on or off the track.
2. In most RC car races, the two most important things in the machine are the engine and the tires. Those who compete should not rely on hard tires but get those made of rubber. This will allow the person to make those sharp turns and while maintaining control on the road.
The RC car should be examined from time to time so that the individual will know when to replace the old tires with new ones.
3. Racers need good engines when competing. A majority of radio controlled cars come with mechanical speed controls that are either rotary or wiper typed. If the racer wants to get the best performance from the machine, it would be a good idea to change these to electronic speed controls. These are maintenance free and are much smaller making the vehicle lighter and smoother to drive. So the RC car will move faster.
4. RC cars also need something to absorb the impact of the track called fluid damped shocks. Since these bog down due to wear and tear, the user should replace these after a few runs so that there won't be any damage to the vehicle.
5. RC machines run on batteries. It is advisable to get those that are rechargeable so that the owner does not have to buy new ones when these are no longer as effective as they used to be.
Preventive maintenance is the best way to make sure the RC car is in good condition at all times.
Also, check out my other guide on Classic Model and RC Business
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Radio Controlled (RC) Cars As Toys
An RC car is made up of a remote and the model vehicle. By turning or pushing the joystick up or down and left or right, the person is able to let it go in any direction.
There are many models out there in the marketplace. The basic ones can only travel a few feet. Those that want to experience the real deal should purchase the model that has to be assembled and modified.
RC cars are categorized either as electric or nitro powered. The nice thing about those that use electric motors is that the battery is rechargeable. Those that use fuel have to be refueled and oiled after some time, which is very similar to regular vehicles.
These toys are used by people of all ages. The specialty store has models similar to those used in NASCAR and monster trucks that are often seen in the demolition derby. This just shows that people can enjoy remote controlled vehicles both on and off the road.
Do these toys require a lot of maintenance? Yes they do. The owner should check the battery, the shock absorbers and the tires regularly. This will ensure that the car is able to maintain its speed and efficiency every time it is taken to the race track.
The hobbyist must be aware that not all of the parts can be repaired. This is because toy manufacturers have designed these to function until the parts simply fail. Those that want to enjoy the toy will either have to replace the parts which are sometimes hard to find or buy a new unit.
RC toys don't only apply to cars. There are also planes, ships and helicopters available in the toy store.
Parents and children alike who are curious and have never done this before should probably stick to the basic model(s) then upgrade later if the individual is really serious about it and wants to participate in racing competitions.
Also, check out my other guide on Build RC Car and Classic Model
Saturday, September 13, 2008
There Are Many Off-Road RC Car Models to Enjoy
While inferior to their on-road counterparts in terms of pure speed, off-road RC cars can do things that on-roads' can't come even close to. They are perfect for performing those long range jumps, and other stunts.
Off-road RC cars are made for rough terrain such as backyards. They can be driven through the dirt, the mud, and other rocky patches. Some of the more powerful models can even brave small streams. Designed for bumps and jumps, off-road RC car models are more lightweight than on-road RC cars and have special suspension systems. They are very durable and are great for those just getting into RC vehicles.
There are many models of off-road RC cars. They also come in both electric and nitro powered.
Electric models of off-road RC cars use battery packs and are overall better suited for beginners. They are easy to maintain and are very cost efficient.
Those looking for more speed might choose a nitro model of RC cars. As well as being generally faster, sturdier, and more powerful than electric RC cars, these RC models are louder and more realistic, though more difficult to maintain.
This is due to their small glow-engines which run on special nitro fuel. Consequently, there is a small chance of a nitro RC model going boom, so special care should be taken especially by younger owners.
Off-road RC car models can come in all sorts of shapes and sizes,
They can range from model RC trucks to RC buggies. Each has their own charm.
A favorite for new users and veterans alike is, the undisputed king of the dirt road, the monster truck. Like the real life versions, these beasts come with their signature giant tires that can take on the toughest of terrain, and make for hours of fun. A good example of a monster truck model is the Tamiya Terra Crusher. This nitro RC car model comes fully assembled and ready to run.
A good model for beginners is the stadium truck. These RC models are simple to use and offer a good combination of power and stability.
Examples of Stadium trucks are the Team Losi XXX-T and Traxxas Rustler.
Another extremely popular model RC cars is the buggy. RC Buggies are made for those jaw dropping jumps, with their low center of gravity, 4 wheel drive and durable build. A good RC buggy for beginners is the Condor nitro buggy.
As well as being a great introduction to the RC world, off-road RC cars offer an experience unique to RC vehicles, whatever model is used.
Also, check out my other guide on Classic Model
Friday, September 12, 2008
Satisfaction in an RC Car Kit
If you've seen an RC hobbyist hard at work on one of his RC car kits, you would note the image of a watchmaker hard at work on his instrument. These hobbyists have these kits down to a science, and if you're raring for the excitement of assembling your own RC, then you've just been bitten by a very infectious bug.
Although there are some RC car kits, mostly for kids, that cost just about $30, the serious enthusiasts should expect to shell out between $100 - $500 or more per kit, not counting initial investment of tools, consumables, and or course, the labor.
The RC car kits can be categorized as follows:
Radio Control (RC) Car Kits - Electric
Most reasonably priced and with the widest variety in this category is the RC kits as Tamiya America, with prices ranging from just below $100 to their top of the line products priced around $600. The products range widely as well, from a Mini Cooper RC Car Kit to Storm Racers.
Similarly priced as Tamiya but not as wide a range of products would be DuraTrax. Mid-priced electric RC kits are Team Associated and C+M/Team Cobra with prices within the $200-$300 range. Also popular are HPI ($400++) and Hot Bodies ($400++).
Radio Control (RC) Car Kits - Nitro
For the nitro-powered kits, the minimum price would be higher - just below $200 for the cheapest ones. More brands compete at this category such as Mugen ($550-$1000), OFNA ($200-$600), and Thunder Tiger ($450-$800).
Of course, the classic RC kit brands such as Tamiya, Team Associated, and HPI all have their Nitro Car Kits; which are the most popular.
Whatever type of RC kit you choose, remember that once you get started, more than the kit itself, it is the time you have to invest in constructing the RC car according to the specifications you want that will warrant the most fun, and the most cost as well.
The idea of constructing your own RC from scratch may seem daunting at first, but as many RC car kit enthusiasts know, there is something very satisfying about constructing something with your own hands - and that is exactly what RC kits are all about.
Also, check out my other guide on Repairing RC and Building RC
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Radio Controlled (RC) Car Collections
Collecting RCs can be compared with other collections like stamp collections, model collections, etc. The difference is that an RC collection is usually more expensive than these aforementioned collections. But it relative for each hobbyists.
Collecting RC cars actually takes a lot of time and effort. An RC doesn't come exactly cheap, so you should be prepared to spend money for it if that is what you really want. Aside from that, you have to spend time building the actual car so you can display it in your collection (unless you get a pre-built one).
To make your collection rival that of others, you ought to have as many models of RCs as possible. Of course, this will take even more time and effort, which is why really avid car fans are the ones that usually own this type of collection.
If you have an RC collection or you decide to have one, you have a lot of options in terms of what to do with your RCs. You can join various competitions of RCs - off road, straight line speed challenges, and a lot more (assuming you indeed have different types of RCs).
You can simply display them in a room or even in a glass case if you really meant to build them for display. Visitors can come and admire the your work.
It would be nice if you have a collection and enter competitions. This way, you can win prize money to reimburse your expenses occurred when you put together your collection. In a short while, you might break even, and in a short time after that, you could be earning profit - simply by collecting RC cars and joining RC contests.
Whatever your motive is in collecting RC cars, it is a great hobby for car enthusiasts. The time and effort you spend will be replaced with deep satisfaction when you admire your own RCs collection.
Also, check out my other guide on Repairing RC
Sunday, May 25, 2008
What Is The Best Radio Controlled Car Model?
There are a lot of radio controlled cars (RCs) and a lot of RC aficionados out there. Across the
Also, check out my other guide on Building RC and RC Car Upgrading
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Common Radio Controlled Car Upgrading Methods
RC hobbyists have been more and more inclined into tinkering with their RC 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.
External modifications of an RC car
Wheels and tires modifications
Nitro or Electric modifications for RC cars
Also, check out my other guide on Building RC and Classic Model
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Classic Radio Control Models
As far as variety goes, there are about as many RC cars as there are models of the real thing, and probably even more. Take for instance the Chevy. There is no lack of RC models available if you go for the classics in this arena; or for their sports car line, like the Chevy Corvette.
Also, check out my other guide on Repairing RC and Building RC
Saturday, May 3, 2008
Tips In Repairing Radio Controlled Cars
When a person buys a car from a dealer, the only way to make the vehicle last for 5 years or longer is through proper care. This can be done visually or brought to the shop after reaching a certain mileage for preventive maintenance.
You may be interested in reading my other guide: RC Car Collection