Remote Control Vehicles Features
How To: Repair or swap out the servo wires in your RC car
If the servo wires in your RC car are broken or need to be a different size for the setup you're working with, this video will help you out. It will show you how to repair damaged servo wires or, if you aren't happy with the size, swap them out for longer or shorter wires.
How To: Install rear steer onto a remote control vehicle
RC Car Action Magazine Editor Peter Vieira shows us how to convert your Traxxas TQ3 for rear steer. This will open up new driving and maneuvering possibilities. Watch this video tutorial and learn how to install rear steer into a remote control vehicle.
How To: Fix a hung brush on a remote control vehicle
RC Car Action Magazine Editor Matt Higgins, shows you how to identify and fix a 'hung brush' in a traditional brushed motor. A mystery stop could be from a hung brush, when the brush of the motor gets clogged with dirt. Watch this video tutorial and learn how to repair a hung brush on the motor of an RC car.
How To: Install beadlocks in your RC tires
Installing beadlocks in your tires can help make sure that the wheel is secure and won't be going anywhere. There are many different types od beadlocks that can be purchased, but for this tutorial, you'll be finding out how to install one in an RC tire.
How To: Remove anodize from aluminum and polish it
This next tutorial can be a bit dangerous and requires that you take full precaution when performing this. With that out of the way, in this video, you'll be finding out how to remove the anodize from aluminum and then polish it for a nice clean, sparkling look. It's pretty easy to follow and can lead to a nice look for your RC vehicle, so check out what you need to do and good luck!
How To: Tune the ACME Attacker 1/8 scale RC Nitro engine
This video shows you how to tune the ACME attacker 1/8th scale nitro engine buggy. Use the high end valve and the idle speed screw as show in the film. Turn the engine and get it to the operating temperature and drive round to the see how the car performs. If the acceleration is sluggish then the low end valve should be adjusted. If the engine is having too much RPM then the idle speed should be reduced using the idle speed screw. If the engine bogs down and makes noise on full throttle and i...
How To: Fly RC helicopters
In this video, we learn how to fly RC helicopters. The controls need to be moved very gently. The control on the left makes the helicopter move up and down when you push it up and down with your two fingers. When you swerve and move the controller it will move the helicopter as well. Move the sticks each way that you want the helicopter to go. Move the right stick to move the nose of the helicopter and make sure it's right in front of you at all time. Turns will be done with the left stick. P...
How To: Repair a crashed 3D helicopter
In this video, we learned how to repair a crashed 3D helicopter. If you have a crashed helicopter that isn't flying or is flying off center, repair it. You will have to have some knowledge of how to repair helicopters, and know which part is broken. Repair the parts that are broken and when you are done you will need to replace all the parts that you previously removed. After you are done with this, you will be able to turn the helicopter back on and test its flying abilities. If the helicopt...
How To: Solder a Deans connector for your RC vehicle
This video is on how to install a Deans connector by using basic soldering. The battery pack for your radio controlled vehicle will never be better.
How To: Secure batteries in an RC vehicle
RC Car Action Magazine Editor Paul Onorato uses electrical tape to secure the AA's in your receiver pack. A little bit of electrical tape will keep the batteries in place while off-roading the RC vehicle. Watch this instructional video and learn how to anchor the batteries in the receiver of an RC vehicle.
How To: Set the Nitro engine gear mesh
For all you future RC fans out there, if you're having trouble setting the Nitro engine gear mesh up on your RC vehicle, do we have the video for you. This tutorial will give you about 8 whole minutes of how to properly set up this easy task. Although it says it is for Nitro, it can be used with others as well. Enjoy!
How To: Assemble a shock assembly on an RC vehicle
Squirrelod shows you how to put together a shock assembly or a shock absorber on a Factory Team remote control car kit. He takes us through building the piston - shaft, dampener, nuts and over rings step by step. Practical tips and tricks involved in building up the shaft and the recommended oil used are presented. This is not something that should be done in a hurry since time is needed to let the oil settle thus removing any air bubbles in the piston. Although the instructions for different...
How To: Start a nitro engine
This video shows the basic steps to starting a cold RC nitro engine. • Remove the body cover of the RC car, exposing the engine.
How To: Setup Axon racing anti-gravity razorback RC racer
This video is on how to setup the axon racing anti gravity razorback racer. it involves receiver installation, zeroing your servo with the trims and lifting the horn, programming the esc, installing the lipo, testing the unit, initial turn on.
How To: Fix the counterclockwise rotation on an RC mosquito
This is an easy way to fix your Micro Mosquito from spinning out of control. This fix is for fixing counterclockwise over rotation. Watch this hobby how-to video and learn how to repair the counterclockwise rotation on a mosquito remote control helicopter.
How To: Put an RC engine back together again
Just like cars, RC vehicles need to be kept in fine shape in order for them to work properly. Doing so will result in a long lasting and healthy vehicle. In this tutorial, you will learn some tips and tricks to putting an RC engine back together again, after you've worked on it. So good luck and enjoy!
How To: Take apart a Nitro RC engine
Starting with the cooling head you are going to have many different screws that could require a screw or a hex. After the screws are removed you can easily lift the cooling head from the engine. The plate underneath should pop right off along with the sleeve and the shim. Make sure you keep the sleeve and shim together. The starter will off once the screws are removed for it as well repeat the process for the backplate. Rotate the piston and this will allow you to pop the sleeve off. To remov...
How To: Water proof the receiver for your remote control car
It's always handy to waterproof your RC kit because your toy car is going to tread in a lot of dirty - and sometimes wet - ground. This means that any electric circuitry faces the risk of coming in contact with water and fizzing out.
How To: Cut carbon fiber safely for your RC vehicle
This video is on the hazards of cutting carbon fiber (CF), how to be safe with it, and the advantages of the different types of CF. Carbo fiber is great for your RC (radio controlled) vehicle.
How To: Understand the mechanics of an RC vehicle engine
Chris Chianelli talks a bit about nitro engines and using the main needle valve. Without knowledge of the vehicle's engine, you won't be able to use the RC vehicle to the max. Watch this video tutorial and learn the inner-workings of an RC vehicle engine.
How To: Install a new engine in an RC Nitro Truck
In this tutorial, we learn how to install a new engine in an RC Nitro Truck. First, fix the engine fly wheel and then fix the clutch shoes. After this, fix the drive gear by making sure the bearings are fit into place. Next, put the drive gear on, then make sure there isn't any friction. Now fix the lock, then fix the clutch shoe spring. Make sure the spring is locked and fit into place. After this, tighten the screw to lock the drive gear, then you are ready to use this engine. Place it into...
How To: Clean an RC vehicle kit, engine and air filter
If you call yourself a hobbyist or a kid at heart, you know that remote-controlled vehicles are more than just fun. If you're a serious R/C man, you'll know all about doing everything to your model truck or car, like fixing wheels, vamping the pinion gears, waterproofing, troubleshooting, electronic diagnostics, setting up, programming and finally... racing. As much as you know about these remote-controlled vehicles, it will never be enough, you'll always be looking for more...
How To: Land a Nitro RC plane
First of all you have to loose the altitude by taking a circle or two around in the air. On the final turn make a good straight approach to runaway and don't use too much ‘ailerons’ then. Just use the controls ‘rudder’, ‘elevator’ and ‘throttle’. Also watch for the cars or the traffic where you are going to land. Keep constant low ‘throttle’. You have to maintain good ‘idles speed’. You might want to adjust and remember the trim settings. After touch down, don’t pull on elevator. Just cut the...
How To: Win a race with an RC car
Chris Chianelli beams in from outer space to give you some tips on how to win races. Don't try to be the fastest or best car; be the smoothest driver. Watch this video tutorial and learn how to win a race on a remote control vehicle.
How To: Apply stripes and lines to RV cars
In this video, we learn how to apply stripes and add lines to RV cars. You can do curved lines or straight lines, depending on the look you want. For straight lines, you will take tape and mark from the hood to where you want the tape to end. Use different sizes to create the look you want to achieve. To get the lines straight, place the tape on a straight surface as a guide with the clear top that goes over the vehicle. Once you do this, you can paint around this to form opposite colors. The...
How To: Seal an RC engine from air leaks
This video is on how to seal a radio controlled engine against air leaks in the back plate, carburetor, and needles. So, if you want the best RC engine around, you might want to do this.
How To: Add weights to your RC crawler tires
If you're looking for a video on how to add weights to your RC vehicles tires, you've come to the right place! In this tutorial, you'll find out what you can do to add weight to your tires as well as where are some of the best places to get them. Weights can help add of course weight down on your tires making them a bit more stable and useful when out in a rocky area. So check out the video and enjoy!
How To: Tune a HPI 21BB engine
In this video tutorial, viewers learn how to tune a HPI 21BB engine. From the base settings, start adjusting the high speed needle in a 1/8 turn. Then adjust the low speed needle in a 1/8 turn as well. Make sure to never run the engine too lean because this can damage the engine. The mid-range needle does not need to be adjusted, but make sure to always run it on base settings. This video will benefit hose viewers who are interested in auto mechanic or have this engine for a vehicle, and woul...
How To: Refill your RC truck shocks with shock oil
To refill your RC truck shocks the first step is to remove the shock with an alarm key located at the bottom of the shock. The next step is to pull the spring back and remove the lower joint and spring then remove the cap screw and be careful, their might be some oil still in there. Fill all the way up to the top if you want stiffer shocks and pump the shocks a few times to eliminate bubbles in the oil. Then reassemble and check to make sure it meets your needs and you are done.
How To: Tune a nitro engine
Tuning a nitro engine can be dangerous work if you don't the necessary precautions. The first and most important precaution is to educate yourself. You want to make sure that the engine doesn't heat up or cool down too much, you want it at it's normal operating temperature. Follow the detailed instructions in this video too see the rest. This video will show the proper, safe way to tune your nitro engine.
How To: Set rotor blade pitch and speed on a Honey Bee King 3
Alishanmao demonstrates on a Honey Bee King 3, how to change the pitch and speed. Using the radio knob in the controller you can change the pitch of the main rotor. Make sure your 3D switch is off, that your throttle is at zero, and after connecting the battery, do not move the battery until you here it beep to confirm it is ready. When pitch is at its minimum you will have less rotation speed and at its maximum you will have a higher rotation speed. The best thing to do is to try and find a ...
How To: Keep track of the maintenance on a remote control car
RC Car Action Paul Onorato shows you a simple tip on keeping a tab on your suspension setup. Clean a cap and write the oil and piston used in the shock. Easy, and no more confusion! Watch this video tutorial and learn how to keep track of the maintenance of the shocks on a remote control car.
How To: Tell if your RC engine is tuned
Learn how to tune a nitro engine for a remote control toy with this video tutorial from Squirrelrod. This particular tutorial focuses on tuning by glow plugs, which sits at the top of the piston. Squirrel explains the various parts and equipment necessary as well as each step in the tuning process. If you're having engine trouble with your remote control toy, this video tutorial shows you how to troubleshoot the problem through the glow plugs. This video will show you how to tune your RC engine.
How To: Make and install a Lexan motor mount on an RC truck
Build a motor mount out of Lexan by making a template that ensures your plan will work and that you will reduce time, frustration, and re-work. Then, cut out the polycarbonate, mark the cutout on the motor, and assemble it all together on the radio control vehicle.
How To: Solder an electric fan in your RC vehicle
This video is on how to install an electric fan onto a ESC (Electric Speed Control) for cooling of your radio controlled vehicle's motor. With a little soldering know-how, you can do this task easy, and quickly.
How To: Set-up a workspace for building models
Build model planes that actually fly! Learn how to set up a workspace for making radio control scale models in this free model making hobby video from an aviation expert and experienced model maker.
How To: Install a ProLine Slash Protrac for a Traxxas Slash RC vehicle
If you own a Traxxas Slash RC vehicle and plan on installing a ProLine Slash Protrac, then this tutorial is what you need. In both videos, you'll find out the necessary steps that are needed to help install whatever it is you need on your RC vehicle. The tools you'll need include, the installation piece, some drivers, flat tip screw drivers, and more. It's easy to follow and really helpful, so good luck and enjoy!
How To: Modify a glow plug wrench for an RC vehicle
Learn how to modify your glow plug wrench so you don't lose your part. Most nitro engine RC vehicles come with a glow plug wrench, but they fall apart so easily. Watch this video tutorial and learn how to modify a glow plug wrench so the individual pieces don't get lost. You will need pliers, shoe glue, and the glow plug wrench.
How To: Resolve issues with Nitro RC clutches
This tutorial shows you how to resolve issues with your Nitro RC clutches. Sometimes applying the clutch can be difficult and result in damage to your vehicle. This shows you how to properly put it on and gives you some tips on how it shoule be put together and what to watch out for. Enjoy!
How To: Shorten servo leads on a remote control vehicle
RC Car Action Magazine Editor Kevin Hetmanski shows us how the pros shorten servo leads. Sometimes the servo leads come to long, so trimming them better suits the need. Watch this video tutorial and learn how to shorten servo leads on an RC car.