Driving radio-control cars is an enjoyable hobby and also a competitive sport, but the vast range of different types of models now available can prove confusing for those new to the scene. This extensively illustrated book starts by providing all the information needed to choose the right model, and goes on to present advice on how to build kits as well as driving techniques, maintenance, modifying, set-up and the various different classes of racing. Essential reading for those contemplating buying their first model and for those already involved in the scene looking to progress to the next level.
The book describes the types of radio-control cars from choosing between pre-built and kits, on-road and off-road, cars and trucks, gas(nitro) and electric power. It then goes on to explain the tips behind building a car, assembly techniques and tools, setting up brakes, suspension and throttle, painting and detailing, applying decals and then leading on to show the best ways of maintaining a car from basic maintenance, checking for wear, adjustments, repairs, replacement parts and cleaning. It also explains how to improve their performance from engine modifications, electronic speed controllers, up-rating motors and batteries, changing chassis and suspension settings, gear ratios and lightweight components for those who want to. Having achieved the building of the car, the book shows driving techniques from how the controls work, cornering, braking, jumping, racing techniques, channel settings for racing with other cars and finally designing and building a track from layout concepts to design and construction suggestions.
Types of radio-control car - choosing between pre-built and kits,
on-road and off-road, cars and trucks, petrol (nitro) and electric
power.Building a car - assembly techniques and tools, setting up brakes,
suspension and throttle, painting and detailing, applying decals.Maintaining
a car - basic maintenance, checking for wear, adjustments, repairs,
replacement parts, cleaning.Performance enhancements - engine modifications,
electronic speed controllers, uprating motors and batteries, changing chassis
and suspension settings, gear ratios, lightweight components.Driving the car
- how the controls work, cornering, braking, jumping, racing techniques,
channel settings for racing with other cars.Designing and building a track -
layout concepts, design and construction suggestions.Appendices detailing
manufacturers, parts suppliers and clubs.
Matt Benfield has been passionate about radio-control cars since childhood, and is currently Editor of Racer magazine, the UKs leading radio-control car monthly. He lives at Farnborough in Kent.
