How to Build a Simple RC Car

Cars like these don't have to be your first foray into the world of RC; there's a simpler way.

Remote-control (RC) vehicles don't have to be gas-powered monstrosities capable of holding their own in a race against medium-grade consumer sedans. In fact, with a few simple tools, some hobby shop basics and some unorthodox materials, you can build a simple two-wheeled RC car in a matter of minutes.

In fact, a well-stocked hobby shop, hardware store or diverse mall should be able to supply you with everything you need to build your own simple RC car.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic index card box
• Electric drill
• Two 9-volt DC motors & detachable rubber wheels
• Double-sided sticky tape
• 9-volt battery pack
• Soldering iron & 2-percent silver solder
• 2-channel radio receiver
• Remote control

Instructions

1. Drill two 1/4- or 1/8-inch holes opposite each other on the long sides of the index card box. Position these holes at one end or another of the box, not through the lid, and as even as you can make them.

2. Remove the rubber wheels from the DC motors. Put the motors inside the box, and thread their shafts through the holes.

3. Stick the motors down securely with strips of double-sided tape underneath each one.

4. Solder the remote control receiver inputs to the power pack's wires, positive to positive and negative to negative.

5. Attach and solder the outputs of the receiver to the motors, positive to positive and negative to negative. Allow the solder to thoroughly harden before attempting to use the circuit.

6. Put a strip of double-sided sticky tape to the underside of both the receiver and the battery pack, and place them inside the box. Press them to the floor or walls of the box firmly to secure them there.

7. Reattach the rubber wheels you removed earlier. Turn on your remote control and test your newly built RC toy. It should go forward and backward, and also turn left and right.

Tips & Warnings

• Your 9-volt DC motors won't have a problem scooting your RC car along without any other wheels, but if you don't like how the one end is dragging along the floor, you can always drill two more holes at the opposite end of the box and insert a free-rotating axle with two more wheels.

References

• RC Hobbies: Getting Started in RC Cars