DIY Network

Electrically Powered RC Cars: Introduction From "Radio Control Hobbies" episode RCH-204

	The miniscule electric motors used in RC model cars are capable of producing serious power.
	Chris Chianelli shows examples of some electrically powered cars and trucks available for the RC hobbyist.

Despite what some RC hobbyists have been led to believe, electrically powered model cars aren't for wimps. Today's models are fast, powerful -- and quiet. In this special episode of DIY Radio Control Hobbies, host Chris Chianelli explains some of the basics of electric motors used in model cars and demonstrates how to do a motor and speed-controller upgrade to enhance performance in an RC truck.

In this segment, Chris introduces the topic of electrically powered scale-model cars. The miniscule electric motors used in RC model cars are capable of some impressive power. They can drive RC racecars and trucks at high speeds, and can push mini monster-trucks over serious grades and obstacles. Below are some examples of electrically powered cars and trucks that are available for the RC hobbyist.

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D
	Figure E
	Figure F
	Figure G

Electrically Powered RC Cars

• The Traxxis Emax (TM ) monster truck (figure A) is a no-nonsense contender for use in RC competition. It comes with 4-wheel drive and two separate motors (figure B), electronic speed controller and two shocks for each of the four wheels.

• The Duratrax Evader (TM ) stadium truck (figure C) is two-wheel drive, has electronic speed controller, oil-shocks and the capability for a number of custom adjustments.

• The remainder of the RC vehicles in this demonstration all have mechanical (rather than electronic) speed controllers. These are typically the types of models purchased by beginners to the world of electric RC cars. Performance mods -- such as electronic controllers, ball-bearings and bigger shocks -- can be added later to upgrade power and handling capabilities. The Mustang Cobra (figure D) from Tomia (TM ) comes with independent suspension all the way around, 4-wheel drive and differentials on each end (figure E).

• The truck that will be modified in the demonstrations that follow is the Kyosho Ultima ST (TM ). The first modification will be the replacement of the stock speed controller with an electronic speed controller (figure F). The speed controller regulates the amount of current sent to the motor. Using an electronic controller eliminates the need for several pieces of equipment used in conjunction with the stock mechanical controller -- including wiring, servos and a resistor -- resulting in lighter and cleaner system. The controller upgrade will enhance performance in a number of ways including faster top-end speeds, longer run-times and better throttle response.

• After replacing the speed controller, the stock motor will be replaced with the high performance Trinity (TM ) motor (figure G).

Kyosho Ultima ST

Length . . . 16.4 inches
Width . . . 12.5 inches
Engine . . . Electric
Assembly . . . Ready to run
Street Price . . . $125