How to Maintain a Remote Controlled Car

Maintaining a remote controlled car is simple if you stay ahead of problems as they arise. With a little preventive care, your remote controlled car should provide years of enjoyment.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Screwdriver
• Denatured alcohol
• Compressed air
• Soldering iron
• Polycarbonate paint

Operate Safely

1. Honor your car's rated top speed and recommended terrain. Often by staying within these bounds, you can maintain the car for years at a stretch.
2. Give the car plenty of time to cool off if it is a glow engine or a gas engine. Overheating is the biggest cause of motor failure.
3. Clean your car often with denatured alcohol and compressed air to maintain the engine. Be sure and clear any debris from the chassis after each use.

Diagnose Problems Quickly

4. Examine the car carefully if it is operating erratically or not at all. Do not wait until further parts break down and melt.
5. Check the motor for any signs of wear or demagnetization. It's not unusual for glow motors to become gummed up with oily residue, give the parts a thorough cleaning.
6. Check the transmitter and receiver by coupling each with a backup. Often the problem lies with the communication, not the servo controls.
7. Check the chassis to see if it is warped or dragging. Collisions are frequent with faster R/C cars, and often the damage can be hard to spot.
8. Check the wheels for signs of warping and loosening. All-terrain R/C cars frequently require replacement wheels, so keep a number of spares on hand.

Fix the Car

9. Replace the car altogether if it is an inexpensive toy car that came pre-assembled and RTR (ready to run).
10. Look for replacement parts if your car is a hobby-grade vehicle. Most manufacturers provide power ratings and chassis specs so you can find precisely what you need.
11. Solder and rewire electrical problems if you have the expertise. Advanced hobbyists save hundreds of dollars each year by maintaining their cars with DIY gumption.
12. Repaint as needed if you want to restore old luster or create new flair.
13. Keep your R/C dry and clean to maintain it when not in use. Dust can damage sensitive engine parts and gas lines on a hobby car the same as it might for a full-size vehicle.

Tips & Warnings

• It is often easier to replace parts than repair them. Most hobby-grade remote controlled cars are designed with plenty of aftermarket parts and upgrades available.
• Always work in a ventilated area, particularly if you are working with lead solder or volatile paints.