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Electric R/C cars and trucks have several advantages for new hobbyists. They're clean-running. They make relatively little noise. And they're easier to operate than "gas" models. You don't have to buy fuel, heat glow plugs or fuss over engine adjustments. Just charge your batteries and connect wires properlythen, your electric car should work.
You have a huge variety to choose from: trucks, semis, buggies, sedans, stock cars and more. Many cars come in "sport" or "competition" versions. First-timers might prefer the sport models for their lower cost and simplicity, though if you're set on racing you may want some competition features, such as ball bearings and oil shocks. When you choose a car, make sure you understand what it does and does not include. Some kits already come with the motor and a mechanical speed control. Competition-level cars provide the basic rolling chassis, but often require you to purchase everything else (motor, battery, electronic speed control, body) separately. Follow the Accessories Required links for the model you choose to see a list of the items you'll need.
Speed Controls
Motors Modified motors require additional current to operate and should be used only with an electronic speed control. Equipped with such features as ball bearings and adjustable timing, they generally offer more power and greater torque than stock motorsbut also drain your battery pack faster. ![]() What else do I need? You have the car or truck, a motor and a speed control. That covers the equipment that makes an assembled electric model ready to race. But you need a few additional items to transform it from a static machine to one with the power to move at your command. Those include a 2-Channel or 3-Channel radio system, with "AA" batteries to power the transmitterplus some Field Accessories, including NiCd battery packs, charger, and a field bag. And, if you purchased a kit rather than an RTR (Ready-to-Run) model, you'll also need a few tools and finishing supplies to put your new vehicle togethersuch as:
Batteries and Charger A rechargeable battery pack is required to run virtually all electric cars and trucks. These are typically made of 6 or 7 individual NiCd or NiMH cells, wired together and wrapped in a plastic film. Most drivers keep several packs on hand, using one to race while another is recharging (which usually takes about 20 minutes). Various types of chargers are available for R/C car batteries. Most beginners choose a "timed" charger (one that operates for as long as its timer has been set) that can be powered either from 110V AC household current or from a 12V DC car battery at trackside. You might also look for a charger with a "trickle" charge modethese let you charge packs slowly overnight. Competitors often use a "peak detection charger." These units have electronic circuitry that can detect when a battery has reached its maximum charge, then automatically switch to slow trickle charge. The lists below show some popular options in batteries and chargers to keep your electric vehicle running. Those under the "Basic" heading do the job for the lowest cost. "Mid-Range" and "Deluxe" choices add convenience features or versatility. Hate digging through the web trying to find the exact parts you need for your R/C model? Tower Hobbies is proud to announce our Parts Ordering Wizard. With just two clicks you can locate any parts listing on our web site. Finding parts literally now takes only seconds. Give our Parts Ordering Wizard a try today! |