RC Cars Hobbies

RC Cars Hobbies - How To Get Started

Within each person is a high, a desire to expand one's horizons. While some require a huge physical and monetary challenge, embarking in an RC car hobby is much less demanding and more practical to turn into a reality.

But an RC hobby is no joke to deal with. It could turn nasty if you don't get yourself ready for it. The desire is just the start of passion and a time-consuming journey which can be one of your life's' greatest rewarding activities.

First you need to determine which you would prefer to have: toy RC kits or hobby kits. Hobby kits are higher in quality but require more expertise. A good way to test if the hobby is for you is by purchasing the toy kit first and then stepping up to the more sophisticated hobby kit if you get the feel for the hobby. Toy kits are assembled and even available in toy stores, while hobby RC cars require assembling capabilities and a bit more than basic knowledge.

There are a host of RC car types available for you, and only you can determine which suits your fancy. There are many scale models, which are 1/20 of the original, life-size or even bigger than the original. If you're just getting started the smaller the better and more manageable. They vary in speed depending on size and power source.

There are two types of power source available for a typical RC car: electric and fuel. In terms of speed, RC Car with Engine-powered is more reliable and exciting to use. However, electrically generated ones are much more user-friendly as far as maintenance is concerned. Since you are beginner, always choose the lesser evil and upgrade to a higher challenge only when you are knowledgeable enough to do so.

RC Car with electric-powered motors requires a radio system to keep them going. These include a transmitter, a receiver and servos. Servos are placed in both the vehicle and the receiver. They serve as connecting nodes between commands from the transmitter to the receiver. The battery pack is rechargeable, though it takes much longer to charge. Some tools for the hand are also needed for the routine maintenance checks.

RC Car with engine-powered also require a radio system. But its battery is non-rechargeable by electricity. An igniter is also needed, since it relies on fuel combustion to move it at awesome speeds. Nitro models don't usually operate on gasoline. It requires a different mixture of chemicals for combustion. You will definitely need a bottle for fuel storage; lest you run out in the midst of the action.

See My other Tips: RC Cars, RC Cars Business, Drag Racing

RC Car Remote

How A Radio Control Car Works

With a radio control system (signals from a radio), the model car is empowered go distances. This is basically how a RC car works. A transmitter enables the user to make commands using the joystick, and the command is sent to the car via a receiver attached to the car.

The real features and make of the full-sized counterpart of these said RC cars are reflected in every way; making it one of the most popular hobbies, especially among men.

A radio control system for the RC cars contains the following: transmitter, receiver, motor and power source.

A handheld device, the transmitter makes use of frequencies to convert joystick commands into signals. It is usually powered by a battery. Radio controlled toys such as RC cars are usually wireless and rely solely on the frequencies generated by the transmitter. So it is very important that you have a well-functioning transmitter if you intend to use your RC car.

The receiver receives the converted signals from the transmitter. Usually circuits are tailored to suit the conversions into commands which the RC car will recognize and eventually execute.

The motor is the life of the car's engine, for it makes the implementation of radio signal commands possible. Without a good motor, you can't expect even the best of radio controlled cars to work its wireless magic.

RC cars can either be powered electrically or by nitro. Electrically powered ones are small but strong, and the power source, nickel-cadmium is rechargeable (similar to some cell phone batteries).

Some RC cars even use the same fuel combustion which can be found in real cars, only that they use synthetic oil, methanol and nitromethane for its mixture. Large models which are created even make use of gasoline and oil itself. It is even more suited for rough terrain than the real cars themselves!

Those which are powered electrically are much cleaner, weigh less and are less demanding for the user. Dust will be the only thing you will worry about with this type of radio controlled car. However these some types take longer to charge than usual. You can't maximize it to be at par with the speed of the fuel-generated cars.

It is also likely to overheat because it makes use of permanent magnets which are vital to its operation. Tire selection is also tedious for electrically powered radio controlled cars. Fuel-powered types are much faster and readily available in the market as compared to electrically generated ones.

See other post: Customizing and Repairing

Customizing Your Radio Controlled Car like A Pro

In the world of the RC car racing, making your cars as unique and as powerful as possible is a must. Racers customize their RC cars without end because it is the
specifications and enhancements to its' features that make it a better race car.

The more sophisticated RC engines have become, the more alterations they have need. Today's cars can now run through any terrain and condition without sacrificing speed.

Modifying your RC car is a difficult task if you are doing it for the first time. To assist in evaluating the well known conversion styles, listed below are some customized RC cars.

1. Monster GT from Team Associated is considered as the toughest RC truck on the market. It has a .21 nitro engine that has 8 oil filled shock absorbers, humongous
universal drive axles, an exclusive dual-starting system, disc brakes, tuned pipes, and a strong aluminum chassis.

Its original dual pick up tank keeps the fuel running even if the truck is upside down. Currently, it has two painted styles available, excluding the limited edition model with a painting of the American flag.

2. X-Factor from XTM has developed a reasonable number of followers since its release in 2003. This monster car has a four link, solid axle suspension that allows it
to move with greater control. Its pioneering engine (XTM 24-7) and electronic mixer (XTM R-Box) give the X-Factor its throttle power and awesome handling in any terrain and condition.

3. The T-Maxx of Traxxas is one of the best selling RC trucks currently. Its award-winning features include automatic shifting and two speed transmission that can go
forward and/or backwards. Its speed of 40 ++ miles per hour is backed up by a strong 2.5 racing engine that gives 60 percent more power that any of it predecessors in the Traxxas line.

Its original WideMaxx Suspension, along with the anodized T6 chassis, gives this racer superior stability when conquering difficult and bumpy terrains.

4. The special, limited edition Mad Force by Kyosho has a solid axle shaft drive, 3mm thick chassis with aluminum plates, and aperture dual disc brakes. This four wheel monster truck has 3 transmissions with double shock mounts and has polished side and lower deck plates.

Customizing your RC is part of the excitement of this sport. So choose those features that you want, fasten your seatbelt, and get ready for some serious speed!

Also, check out my other guide on Classic Model

Classic Radio Control Models And More

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.

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

Starting A Remote Controlled Car Business

Starting an RC car business is a serious commitment to a hobby that many people take seriously. However, it isn't the business decision most people would care to take since it focuses on an enthusiast market.

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

Saving Money On Buying Radio Controlled Parts

When the Car breaks down or requires repair after an accident, many owners send it back to the dealer. If the parts and the labor are too expensive, it is sent to a smaller shop that is much cheaper and uses surplus parts instead of the original ones.

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

Tips For Drag Racing With Radio Controlled (RC) Cars

For most people, the idea of drag racing implies exhilaration and excitement. It also connotes danger. It's a good thing that RC cars can now enable anyone to experience the thrills and excitement of drag racing without being exposed to too much danger.

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

Taking Care of Radio Control Car Parts

The RC Car. It is one thing to know how to drive the RC car; it is another to maintain it so that it will be in good condition at all times. Here are a few tips for those who want to know more about taking care of the RC and its 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

Radio Controlled (RC) Cars As Toys

Roger was fascinated about automobiles. Since this teenager neither had the money nor the experience needed to compete in NASCAR or in the Indy 500, the parents decided to give him the next best thing - which is a RC car. This will allow the boy to race just like the experts without the risk of getting hurt should the vehicle get bumped or fly out of the control.

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

There Are Many Off-Road RC Car Models to Enjoy

In the world of RC vehicles, off-road radio controlled cars stand out as some of the most fun models to use.

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

Satisfaction in an RC Car Kit

Once you've been caught in the excitement of the RC hobby, many times there is no turning back. Many people start out with RC cars that are ready to race or run out of the box. For the more adventurous, they would rather buy RC car kits that they can assemble themselves. Of course, once you buy a kit, you'll need the tools, a toolbox, and the list goes on and on.

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