Minggu, 30 Desember 2007

Radio Controlled 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 radio controlled 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.

A radio controlled 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.

Radio controlled 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.

Radio controlled 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.

Radio Controlled Car Manufacturers

Genuine basketball enthusiasts are aware of the significant role played by Wilt Chamberlain in the sport. If you wish to be able to have more fun with your radio controlled cars, knowing the history of RC cars will enable you to better appreciate what you have now.

Tamiya Goes First

This Japanese toy company was better known for producing plastic or die cast toys. In 1976, however, Tamiya was the first to produce toy cars that were defined as "suitable" for remote control. The prototypes of RC cars were crudely built, but they still sold rapidly.

Afterwards, Tamiya was able to improve and innovate by focusing less on scaling and more on the toys' radio control feature. The new RC cars produced by the Japanese toy giant were better looking, tougher, customizable, easy to repair, and with more powerful engines. These RC cars sparked worldwide interest in the hobby. Classic products from the Tamiya RC car product line include the Blackfoot and the Hornet.

Schumacher Makes a Difference

The UK firm Schumacher made a splash in 1980 by introducing the use of ball differentials in RC cars. This improvement allowed RC car hobbyists to enjoy quicker and smoother maneuvering on and off the track. In 1986, it produced the all-powerful Competition All Terrain (CAT) vehicle, a recipient of numerous World Championships.

Associated Electrics Powers Out

In 1984, this company, based in Costa Mesa, California, manufactured the RC10 off-road electric racer. It was the first RC car that Associated Electrics produced which did not use nitromethane-powered engines and was not for on-road use. An RC car that's built to last and endure, the RC10 had a sleeker design, was made from non-corrosive, aircraft-grade aluminum alloy, and with powerful shock absorbers and differential featuring. Its design and features quickly made it the electric king of off-road competition.

Go, Team Losi, Go!

Gil Losi Jr. was born to a racing family which owned the famous Ranch Pit Shop R/C racetrack in California. Upon establishing Team Losi, Gil created the JRX-2, a buggy that was immediately set in competition against the RC car of Associated Electrics. Team Losi's also credited for being the first to use all-natural rubber tires and creating a whole new RC car category: the 1/18 scale Mini-T electric vehicles for off-road use.

Other important RC car manufacturers are the U.S. based Traxxas and the Japanese firm Kyosho.

These fine old companies continue to dominate the racing scene up to the present. Racing any of their cars will instantly make you part of the great history of the RC car industry.

Radio Controlled Car Collections

A collection of radio controlled cars (RC for short) is a typical sight in the house of an avid automobile fan. If he enjoys car racing, whether it's Formula 1, NASCAR, the Le Mans, or in general, chances are high that he has a collection of RCs. However, it is not limited to car fans. A lot of hobbyists also have collections of RCs.

Collecting RCs can be compared with other collections like stamp collections, coin collections, model collections, etc. The difference is that an RC collection is usually more expensive than these aforementioned collections. It really depends on the individual whether he is interested in this type of collection or not.

Collecting radio controlled 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 them. You can join various competitions - off road, straight line speed challenges, course 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 in your living room if you really meant to build them for display. Visitors can come and admire the work you put into putting the whole collection.

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 radio controlled cars and joining RC contests.

Whatever your motive is in collecting radio controlled 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 collection.

Radio Control Car Video

What's a fun thing to do with a radio-controlled car other than to race it? Well, one can make it into a spy camera. RC cars make good stealth vehicles. They can be used for surveillance or simply for fun.

Different models of mini-cameras can be installed in radio-controlled cars. Perhaps, this innovation will be seen in the race tracks in the future, where drivers will be able to get a first-hand view of the tracks as if they were inside their radio-controlled cars. But for now, radio-controlled cars with video capabilities can be used as toys.

There has been a toy that was released recently which caters to the inquisitive and adrenaline-packed attitudes of children who are into spy games. The "Spy Video Car" was released by the toy company Wild Planet at the San Francisco Toy Fair. It is currently priced at $50.

It has a digital camera that is incorporated into the body of the car. The camera itself rotates in wide angles which can be controlled via a remote control. The cool thing about this toy is that it features an eyewear where the video from the camera can be viewed. This adds up to the illusion that one is really into a spy game. The video is empowered with infrared technology so that one can use it even at night.

The sunglasses are impact resistant and can store up to twenty digital images. The images can then be transferred to an ordinary computer through a USB cable. However, the images generated from the video car are somewhat low in resolution, 640 by 480 pixels at the most.

One can definitely innovate and attach an ordinary mini-digital camera into his radio-controlled car if he would want to experiment on something new. A wireless digital camera can be purchased from specialty stores and can be installed in most RC vehicles.

This would entail some kind of expertise in terms of setting up the cameras and the viewing mechanism. The video cameras can usually be directed into personal computers and one can have the option of recording or capturing the video. Getting a video of the race track can be a good way of learning the tracks and getting ahead of the competition.

A video mechanism on an RC vehicle is a great innovation and a whole lot of fun too.

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!

Little Known Ways in Buying Petrol Radio Controlled Cars

Once upon a time, radio controlled cars were fairly simple. With a superior electrically powered engine, primary radio controlled cars are nothing more than just toys.

A small enough number of radio controlled cars existed in the market that even the broadest market criteria returned a manageable number of potential sales.

As time goes by, more and more radio controlled car models have been manufactured and distributed. Among the widest and the most innovative creations were the petrol radio controlled cars.

Petrol radio controlled cars differ from the typical electrically-powered radio controlled cars because these cars are powered by fuel. They use gasoline as the main source for their kinetic energy.

One of the greatest advantages of petrol radio controlled cars over electrically-powered radio controlled cars is that they can arrive at remarkable speeds; with greater maximum speeds compared to most electrical cars.

Full power optimization is expected with most petrol radio controlled cars. The only problem with these fuel-powered radio controlled cars is that they produce more dirt from the burnt fuel than the other models.

Moreover, because petrol radio controlled cars have greater speeds, chances of crashes and smashes are more common. Hence, safety must be considered when driving these fully-powered petrol radio controlled cars.

Alternatively, if you wish to buy petrol radio controlled cars, you must try to consider these factors first:

1. Your budget

Like any hobby, you must have a well-planned budget for your petrol radio controlled cars. These diminutive almost-real cars may cost you a fortune especially if you want them fully-powered and with the best repair and maintenance kits.

2. Choose your model

Petrol radio controlled cars come in composite and "ready-to-run" models. Composite petrol radio controlled cars may come in kits or as partly assembled radio controlled cars.

On the other hand, "ready-to-run" petrol radio controlled cars are already available in the market in a "pre-tuned" condition. This means that you can readily operate them and start using them without earlier modifications.

Hence, it is best to decide which petrol radio controlled car you would like to start with as a hobby or as a racing model.

3. Establish a definite time for your hobby

Operating petrol radio controlled cars is no joke. You really need to set aside a good schedule for it. The upgrade, maintenance, and repairs can really take most of your time because the operation is more like it is in a real car.

In short, petrol radio controlled cars are one of the best buys you can make as long as you keep these tips in mind.

Kamis, 27 Desember 2007

How To Get Started With Radio Controlled Car Hobby

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

But a radio controlled 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 scale models which are 1/20 of the original, and there are others which are 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 radio controlled car: electric and fuel. In terms of speed, engine powered ones are 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.

Electric-powered motors require 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.

Engine-powered ones 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.

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.

Getting Into Radio Controlled Car Racing

Getting greedy for speed? If you're in too deep with your RC hobby, chances are, you'll want to show off your newly acquired skills. If the idea of heart thumping competition has your adrenaline rushing, then by all means, take a shot at professional radio controlled car racing.

Joining clubs is not only a means to get to this end, but is a good way to learn from other people who are as pumped up about this hobby as you. When you're a member of a club, especially if it's a chapter of a national organization, you will have contact to resources you would not have been able to get to without the backing of the club, such as special insurance, etc.

Here are some easy steps to get you started:

1. Find a local RC club - You can do a quick search in the internet, ask your local hobby shop, or ask friends who are already a part of these clubs. Chances are, if you're already into this hobby, you'll definitely bump into people who are in the know of how to become a member of a local club.

2. Find a trainer/instructor - Yes, yes, you may know all the terms and lingo in the RC circuit, and you may have beat the pants off all the other hobbyists in your area, but nothing beats having a mentor to guide you on how to prepare for the races.

3. Participate in organized meets - whether it's a mock race or just plain fun, try to involve yourself in these to get as much practice and to meet, share, and get insider information about your hobby from fellow enthusiasts.

4. Join the organized races - OK, so after those first few sessions with your trainer, you're not too sure if you're ready to actually participate in a race, but don't worry, there's always a first time and after that, the adrenaline rush will get you hooked for more!

One thing to remember when hoping to participate in professional races is to practice, practice, practice. Like any other sport or hobby, you can buy all the right equipment, you can buy the fastest RC that money can buy, but you can't buy the skill it takes to drive the RC around the laps, nor the experience and the steel will you need when the competition gets really tough.

So, got the need for speed? Sign up at a local RC club and see how far your dream to race can take you.

Selasa, 25 Desember 2007

Fuel Powered Radio Controlled Cars For Beginners

If you are looking for a more realistic and thrilling radio controlled car, fuel power is for you. The engine bellows like that of a real car, there are at least two gears available, and you can smell the familiar tang of gas fumes. Some racers claim that it makes you feel like you are really inside the car driving and maneuvering.

For a newbie in radio controlled car racing, below are some of the qualities of fuel powered R/C's that you need to take note of.

1. RTRs or ready to run fuel powered cars are available for purchase. These have not only been assembled by the manufacturers but tuned as well. You can buy one and take it directly to the race track for your speeding pleasure.

2. They can reach awesome speeds. This is much better than the speed you get from an electric powered R/C, which is mainly focused on its instantaneous throttle. You can take advantage of this during distance races where acceleration is not as important as the maximum speed attained.

3. Cleaning a fuel powered radio controlled car requires a bit of effort. You usually need to use solvents and air blowers to get rid of the stains caused by fuel combustion. Aside from that, polishing is also required to remove track dirt and dust.

4. Fuel power provides better performance and longer running times. For a dedicated racer, these are the qualities needed to top distance races and conquer outdoor tracks.
The stronger engine is able to hold up longer and pulls through tough dirt roads. This is also beneficial in the long run as it defends better against normal wear and tear.

5. Skill as a technician is needed to keep your model car in top form. It is much like being your own mechanic. Competent knowledge of the car parts and how they work is needed to maintain maximum performance, fuel efficiency, and full power.

6. Extra precaution must be undertaken with fuel powered radio controlled cars. Because they are heavier and faster than electric powered R/C's, collisions are more fatal.
Real damage can be wrought on you car; ending up with a heap of wreckage is not a fun idea. Along with its greater power comes more force in hits and clashes, bringing more harm not only to your car but also to the other car that it will hit.

For a more lifelike and convincing racing experience, fuel power is recommended. It is like a real car in almost every aspect, except it is scaled down.

Customizing Your Radio Controlled Car like A Pro

In the world of the radio controlled car racing, making your cars as unique and as powerful as possible is a must. Racers customize their 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 radio controlled 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!

Common Radio Controlled Car Upgrading Methods

RC hobbyists have been more and more inclined into tinkering with their radio controlled 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.

Since radio controlled cars are no longer considered just kids' toys, but more of an investment of time and money; increasing their value with the addition of new parts or altering some of their mechanical capacities to improve their performance has become the norm.

A hobby-grade RC car is usually the only type of these vehicles that can be upgraded. The installation of a new motor, a better tire or body is commonly what RC aficionados do when upgrading their RC's.

External modifications of an RC car

Indeed, it's the internal parts of a radio controlled car that makes it work. But it would look a lot cooler if you try to improve its external parts, right? The usual "mods" or modifications that RC aficionados do to the external parts of their RC's include repainting, which can be more fun if the owner chooses to have some intricate designs on his RC. Adding some decals with the use of your PC and trusty inkjet printer can also be a good external mod for your RC.

Wheels and tires modifications

It's an option whether an RC car owner just wants to dye the rims of his RC's or would prefer to change the tires altogether. Choosing the right foam tires and/or performance tires to improve the racing capacity of your RC is one trick that an RC enthusiast should never overlook if he or she wants to become his or her own efficient RC handyman.

Nitro or Electric modifications for RC cars

This kind of modification requires an ample amount of "geekiness" really. Not many know which engine to choose if they are into this endeavor. If you're aiming to better the performance of your nitro-powered radio controlled vehicle, installing a tuned pipe is one popular way to do it. Maybe a video tutorial or just any illustrated do-it-yourself RC mod project site can help you.

For those with electric-powered RC's, usually changing the motor will do.

And by the way, usually, radio controlled cars come with upgrade kits when purchased. Think of maximizing these kits first before buying any new tool or upgrade items.

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 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.

Senin, 24 Desember 2007

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.

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 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.

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!

Minggu, 23 Desember 2007

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.

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.