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.
The same thing but in a smaller scale is done for radio controlled cars. This should be done after each run that will usually take 30 minutes to an hour. Here are a few tips on repairing radio controlled cars.
1. First, a visual inspection should be made over the entire vehicle. This will make it easy for the person to identify any cracks, leaks or broken parts that have to be glued or replaced.
2. Radio controlled cars using batteries should be disconnected and recharged. Those that use oil should be drained to prevent condensation to build up inside that could damage the engine.
3. The suspension of most radio controlled cars endures a lot of beating after engaging in hair pin turns, long jumps and various terrains. A person can make sure this is still in good condition by pressing on that section of the vehicle and by adding oil to the shocks.
4. The jumps and spins may also cause some screws to come loose over time. The individual should have a screw driver nearby to tighten them. Those that appear secure should be given a coat of thread locking compound to make sure they stay in place.
5. Radio controlled cars use rubber tires. After a few spins, they will develop some cuts and gashes which occur due to the quality of the road. If these are no longer able to maintain a good grip on the road, the individual should have them replaced at once with new ones from the hobby store.
6. If some paint has chipped off or holes have developed around the radio controlled car, the hobbyist can fix them using some paint and a pack of glue.
Once all of these are done, it is time to end the maintenance check using some paper towels and a toothbrush. These will be used to remove any dirt or dust that has accumulated in the undercarriage or in those hard to reach places of the radio controlled car.
The radio controlled car is a not just a toy but a machine that requires a lot of maintenance. A person must learn how to take care of it to be able to enjoy playing with it every time it is taken to the race track.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Tips On How To Maintain Your Radio-Controlled Cars
First things first, a radio-controlled car is a model car that is driven using a system that is run by radio control from a significant distance. Using transmitters or joysticks to input any direction one wants the car to go; this is then communicated to the vehicle's receiver found onboard the radio-controlled car.
Believe it or not, driving, building and modifying a radio-controlled car is the kind of hobby that is enjoyed by most people and car enthusiasts of varying ages.
The value of proper maintenance
So why should one appropriately care for and maintain their own radio-controlled cars? A radio-controlled car that is maintained regularly helps ensure that it runs smoothly and with no trouble at all.
However, there are also those types of radio-controlled cars that are a lot cheaper and are found in electronic and discount stores. These are cars that are classified as "toy-grade." Usually, these types of cars are unserviceable. But people who are interested in the mechanics of radio controlled cars, the regular maintenance of these types of vehicles is part and parcel of such a hobby.
Due to the radio-controlled cars construction, which is modular in nature, in the event that a part breaks or wears out, these could be individually replaced.
Upgrade your vehicle
Fortunately, the replacement parts for those models that are hobby-grade allows these vehicles to be upgraded extensively. Compare this to those toy-grade vehicles wherein it is quite impossible to find parts. Plus, these toy-grade vehicles are disassembled in a more difficult manner.
Due to their difficult maintenance, Radio Shack was able to release XMODS as well as ZipZap cars. These are toys that are classified within the mid-grade line and which can be modified, tuned, repaired - albeit to a degree quite less when compared to those professional vehicles classified as hobby-grade.
Recently, car models that are ready-to-run are available from major remote-controlled-car manufacturers. This fact has made it possible for hobbyists to be attracted to such vehicles where they would have otherwise purchased a toy car that is pre-assembled.
These types of vehicles do not need much final assembly. The bodies of these remote-controlled-cars are shipped already trimmed, painted and requires no additional work from the vehicle's owner before it is used.
All in all, remote-controlled-cars provide satisfaction to the owner as long as the vehicles are kept well maintained and in good - if not excellent - condition.
Believe it or not, driving, building and modifying a radio-controlled car is the kind of hobby that is enjoyed by most people and car enthusiasts of varying ages.
The value of proper maintenance
So why should one appropriately care for and maintain their own radio-controlled cars? A radio-controlled car that is maintained regularly helps ensure that it runs smoothly and with no trouble at all.
However, there are also those types of radio-controlled cars that are a lot cheaper and are found in electronic and discount stores. These are cars that are classified as "toy-grade." Usually, these types of cars are unserviceable. But people who are interested in the mechanics of radio controlled cars, the regular maintenance of these types of vehicles is part and parcel of such a hobby.
Due to the radio-controlled cars construction, which is modular in nature, in the event that a part breaks or wears out, these could be individually replaced.
Upgrade your vehicle
Fortunately, the replacement parts for those models that are hobby-grade allows these vehicles to be upgraded extensively. Compare this to those toy-grade vehicles wherein it is quite impossible to find parts. Plus, these toy-grade vehicles are disassembled in a more difficult manner.
Due to their difficult maintenance, Radio Shack was able to release XMODS as well as ZipZap cars. These are toys that are classified within the mid-grade line and which can be modified, tuned, repaired - albeit to a degree quite less when compared to those professional vehicles classified as hobby-grade.
Recently, car models that are ready-to-run are available from major remote-controlled-car manufacturers. This fact has made it possible for hobbyists to be attracted to such vehicles where they would have otherwise purchased a toy car that is pre-assembled.
These types of vehicles do not need much final assembly. The bodies of these remote-controlled-cars are shipped already trimmed, painted and requires no additional work from the vehicle's owner before it is used.
All in all, remote-controlled-cars provide satisfaction to the owner as long as the vehicles are kept well maintained and in good - if not excellent - condition.
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 radio-controlled 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 radio-controlled 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 radio-controlled 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.
The radio-controlled 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 radio-controlled 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 radio-controlled 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.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Racing Tips And Etiquette For Radio Controlled Car Modelers
As newbie radio controlled car modelers, you're probably more used to building and building and more building, but you're 100% clueless with racing. That's okay. If someone has convinced you to take a chance at racing any of those lovingly built toys of yours, we're here to ensure that you've made the right decision.
Racing Tips
Gather as much information as you can about the specific race you've registered for. Is it on-track or off-track racing? What type of radio controlled cars has better success rates? What are the frequent pitfalls and secret keys to success in and for the race?
Know if your radio controlled car is in mint condition for racing. Consult an expert if any of the racing specifications are boggling your mind. After all, even though both fields concern radio controlled cars, racing is still different than modeling. It's understandable that all you know is how is making your cars mean without making them act mean on the road as well.
Practice, practice, practice! Be prepared for the first few days of practice to be particularly grueling, especially if you have a racetrack to practice in. Don't pressure yourself too much by expecting yourself to negotiate all road problems with instant success. Remember: Jeff Gordon wasn't created in a day.
If it's not too much to ask of your pride, consider soliciting help from any RC car racing acquaintance you know. Although experience is arguably the best teacher, you will still benefit from the wisdom of a long-time RC car racer.
Racing requires money. Why? Because the littlest things can make you lose the race so you need to be prepared for any eventuality. At the very least, you have to purchase extra batteries and speed control accessories to improve your chances on the racetrack.
Lastly, schedule a friendly race between you and any other racing individual you know. It's best to know how you'll perform under pressure beforehand.
Racing Etiquette
If you're confused about anything, ask rather than relying on a shot at the dark. Don't risk getting disqualified for the race simply because you unintentionally committed an infraction.
If there's a racing handbook or guide for racers, read it carefully and thoroughly.
Greet your fellow racers politely and pleasantly. RC car racers are a pretty tight group; don't feel so bad if you're unable to be "one of them" at your first foray to their world.
We wish you all the luck on the day of the competition. If things don't work out, you can always try again or go back to radio controlled car modeling, whichever makes you happy!
Racing Tips
Gather as much information as you can about the specific race you've registered for. Is it on-track or off-track racing? What type of radio controlled cars has better success rates? What are the frequent pitfalls and secret keys to success in and for the race?
Know if your radio controlled car is in mint condition for racing. Consult an expert if any of the racing specifications are boggling your mind. After all, even though both fields concern radio controlled cars, racing is still different than modeling. It's understandable that all you know is how is making your cars mean without making them act mean on the road as well.
Practice, practice, practice! Be prepared for the first few days of practice to be particularly grueling, especially if you have a racetrack to practice in. Don't pressure yourself too much by expecting yourself to negotiate all road problems with instant success. Remember: Jeff Gordon wasn't created in a day.
If it's not too much to ask of your pride, consider soliciting help from any RC car racing acquaintance you know. Although experience is arguably the best teacher, you will still benefit from the wisdom of a long-time RC car racer.
Racing requires money. Why? Because the littlest things can make you lose the race so you need to be prepared for any eventuality. At the very least, you have to purchase extra batteries and speed control accessories to improve your chances on the racetrack.
Lastly, schedule a friendly race between you and any other racing individual you know. It's best to know how you'll perform under pressure beforehand.
Racing Etiquette
If you're confused about anything, ask rather than relying on a shot at the dark. Don't risk getting disqualified for the race simply because you unintentionally committed an infraction.
If there's a racing handbook or guide for racers, read it carefully and thoroughly.
Greet your fellow racers politely and pleasantly. RC car racers are a pretty tight group; don't feel so bad if you're unable to be "one of them" at your first foray to their world.
We wish you all the luck on the day of the competition. If things don't work out, you can always try again or go back to radio controlled car modeling, whichever makes you happy!
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 radio control 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 radio controlled 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.
Radio controlled 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 radio controlled 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.
The real features and make of the full-sized counterpart of these said radio controlled 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.
Radio controlled 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 radio controlled 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.
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