2008年2月12日星期二

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.
By Alexander

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.

Be Prepared with the Ultimate Checklist for RC Car Supplies


Whether it's your first race or not, having extra parts and RC car supplies will ensure that you're equipped to handle any kind of racing emergency. There's nothing that could feel worse than losing the race simply because you forgot to bring an extra pair of batteries with you!

Batteries and Chargers

Let's start with something simple: batteries and chargers. Having one extra pair is good, but having two extra pairs is better. Make sure you have a charger with you always. If you don't think the racetrack's likely to have available outlets, make sure that the charger has the proper connector so you can use it in your car. Before leaving, check one last time if both batteries and chargers are in good working order.

Speed Control Accessories

Looks are nothing on or off the road as long as you're in a race. Speed, on the other hand, is one of the most significant factors that could make or break you. Are you certain you have all the speed control accessories that can help you win the race? If you aren't using any speed control accessory at all, you can ask for the help of a sales representative in a RC car shop.

Bearings

These are what allow your RC car to maneuver challenging conditions on or off track. Before leaving for the races, make sure that there's nothing wrong with your RC car's bearings. If you think your RC car will do better if it is a newer or different type, you should make the change at least a month before the competition to give you enough time to practice.

Replacement Parts

Whether your RC car is running on gas, electricity, or nithromethane, there are sure to be spare parts available for your car in any RC car shop. If you're on a budget, consider which parts of the RC car are most likely to be damaged in a race then buy replacement parts for them. Consider buying in advance because some replacement parts take some time before they can be delivered.

Tires

Since they're what make your RC car move, they're not something you should neglect. Make sure your tires are in the best condition before going for the races. Take it for a spin so you can see if they're working well.

Engines and Motors

These are one of the most important and most expensive parts of an RC car, regardless of what type of power you're running on. If you can't have an extra motor on hand, make sure that yours' is in mint condition on the day of the race.

Have fun at the races!