Building a High-Speed RC Car: A Beginner’s Guide
RC cars have been a popular hobby for a long time, and building high-speed RC cars has become a favorite among enthusiasts. These cars are designed to move at incredibly high speeds, providing an experience that is both thrilling and exciting. Creating a high-speed RC car requires a bit of knowledge and effort, but the end result is more than worth it. In this beginner’s guide, we will go over everything that you need to know about building a high-speed RC car from scratch. Whether you’re new to building RC cars or have some experience, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to create a fast and reliable RC car that you can proudly show off to your friends and family. Let’s begin.
Choosing the Right Car
When building a high-speed RC car, the first step is to choose the right one for the task. Here are a few things to keep in mind when selecting an RC car:
– Type of car: There are three different types of RC cars: electric, nitro, and gas. Electric cars are the most popular among beginners due to their ease of use and affordability. Nitro and gas cars are more expensive and require more maintenance, but they are faster than electric cars.
– Size of car: RC cars come in various sizes, ranging from 1/24 to 1/5 scale. For high-speed racing, it is recommended that you choose a car that is at least 1/10 scale or bigger.
– Brand: It is always best to go with a reputable and well-known brand when selecting an RC car. This ensures that you have access to spare parts if needed.
Here are some popular RC car brands to consider:
– Traxxas
– HPI Racing
– Losi
– Redcat Racing
Lastly, make sure to do your research and read reviews online before purchasing an RC car. Websites such as RC Universe, RC Groups, and RC Car Action are great resources to check for reviews and to browse for cars.
How do I choose the right car?
Choosing the right car can be an overwhelming decision with so many options available, but here are some essential tips that can help you make a wise decision:
- Determine your budget and stick to it. Consider not only the car’s purchase price but also the ongoing maintenance and fuel costs.
- List down your essential needs, such as the number of passengers, cargo space, and safety features.
- Research the available cars models that fit your needs and budget. Read reviews from reliable sources, and compare prices of different vehicles. Websites such as Edmunds, Car and Driver, and Consumer Reports offer lots of helpful information.
- Test-drive the cars that you are considering purchasing. See how they feel on the road and check for comfort, visibility, and ease of handling.
- Consider the car’s resale value, warranty, and reliability ratings. You want a car that will last long and not cost you much in maintenance any time soon.
Keep these tips in mind while choosing the right car that not only suits your needs and budget but also provides the best value for your money.
Upgrading the Motor
Upgrading the motor is crucial to achieving high speeds with an RC car. Here’s what you need to know:
- Types of Motors: There are two kinds of motors – brushed and brushless. Brushed motors are cheaper, slower and less efficient. Brushless motors, on the other hand, are more expensive but are faster and more efficient.
- Sensor and Sensorless Motors: Brushless motors come in two varieties – sensor and sensorless. Sensorless motors are easier to maintain and cheaper, while sensor motors provide better control and efficiency.
- Motor KV rating: The KV rating of the motor measures the number of revolutions per minute (RPM) per volt applied to the motor. Higher KV ratings mean higher RPMs and faster speeds, but it also means that the motor will heat up faster.
Brushed vs Brushless Motors – A Comparison Table
| Feature | Brushed Motors | Brushless Motors |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Cheaper | Expensive |
| Speed | Slower | Faster |
| Maintenance | Require consistent maintenance | Low-maintenance |
| Efficiency | Less efficient | More efficient |
When upgrading the motor, it is recommended that you purchase a brushless motor with a sensor for better performance. Websites such as HobbyKing and Tower Hobbies have a wide selection of brushless motors to choose from. Make sure to read reviews and check specifications before purchasing a motor.
What do I need to make my RC car go faster?
Here are some ways to make your RC car go faster:
- Upgrade the motor and battery
- Reduce the weight of the car
- Use high-quality tires
- Adjust the suspension settings
- Improve the aerodynamics
There are many online resources available with detailed instructions on how to achieve these upgrades. You can find these resources on websites such as RC Driver and RC Planet. Alternatively, you can purchase upgrade kits and parts from online retailers such as Amazon, HobbyKing or TowerHobbies.
Upgrading the Tires
Upgrading the tires can greatly improve the car’s traction and overall performance. Here’s what you need to know:
– Slick Tires: These provide less traction and are suitable for high-speed runs on smooth surfaces.
– Off-Road Tires: These provide more traction and are designed for off-road tracks and rough surfaces.
When upgrading the tires, it is important to match the type of tire to the type of surface you will be driving on. You can purchase tires from online hobby stores such as RC Planet and AMain Hobbies.
Conclusion
Making a high-speed RC car is not an easy task, and it requires both hard work and patience. Upgrading the motor, battery, and tires are all necessary to achieve higher speeds. It is important to remember to always use high-quality components and maintain the car properly. By following these tips, you can create an impressive and high-performing RC car that is sure to stand out from the crowd. Good luck and have fun!
