How to Start a Nitro RC Car

There are two methods to start a nitro RC car: with a pull-start mechanism, or with a starter box. A pull-start mechanism is bolted to the engine back plate and a one-way bearing inside the pull-start assembly slides over the engine's crankshaft. When you pull on the pull-start cord, the one-way bearing spins the crankshaft and starts the engine. A starter box uses a motorized rubber wheel that spins the engine's flywheel to start it up.

Things You'll Need

• Fuel
• Fresh glow plug
• Glow plug igniter

Instructions

Before you start

1. Install fresh batteries in the radio system and battery holder in the car or truck. Never attempt to run an RC vehicle with dead batteries, or you vehicle may go out of control. Next, make sure the glow plug igniter is fully charged or has a new battery installed.

2. Check the steering and throttle trims before you attempt to start the vehicle. Are the front wheels pointing straight ahead? Do they turn to the right and left according to the commands from the radio? Does the throttle lever open and close the carburetor? Do the brakes function normally? If you answered yes to all of these questions you're ready to go.

3. Check the air filter to make sure it's properly mounted and well lubed.

Starting the engine

1. Fill the tank with fuel

2. Prime the engine by covering the muffler exhaust tip with your finger and yanking on the pull-start cord a few times. You could also prime the carburetor by blowing air into the fuel line that attaches to the tuned pipe or muffler. You should see fuel travel through the fuel line and into the carburetor.

3. Install the glow plug igniter and wait 15 seconds for it to heat up the glow plug. You can now yank on the pull-start cord or use a starter box to spin the flywheel. The engine should fire up within a few pulls or a couple of seconds on the starter box.

4. Once the engine starts, run the car or truck immediately to warm up the engine. If the engine stalls for any reason, there's a good chance that your engine may require tuning. Consult the engine instructions for tuning advice.