Buying Zipzap Radio Control Cars

January 17, 2010 by Mark 12 Comments

Technically every stage of the radio controlled car revolution has had its own killer power engines. Way back in the radio controlled cars’ early stages it was the “small, nitromethane-powered engine” car that got many people interested in radio controlled cars.

Then, the ZipZaps came along. These are diminutive radio controlled cars being marketed by Radio Shack. They are considered more as miniature monsters waiting for their own killer engines to emerge.

They were first launched in the market as “micro RCs” due to their undersized structures. However, even if they are small, electrically powered radio controlled cars, they appear bigger to some extent than Matchbox and Hot Wheels.

The good thing about ZipZaps is that you can modify them. In other words, you can convert or tailor your radio controlled car’s appearance, performance, and power according to your needs and wants.

When you buy ZipZaps radio controlled cars, you already get a pre-constructed chassis with integrated “nickel metal hydride rechargeable batteries.” However, the tires, gears, and “hubcaps” can be modified for optimum performance and form.

You can also modify the total outer appearance by changing “body shells,” which can be attached at the uppermost portion of the chassis. In turn, you can easily disguise your
ZipZaps as any car model that you like such as Ford GT, Chevrolet, Mercedes-Benz SL, etc.

When it comes to racing, ZipZaps can only be accommodated twice in a race. This means that three or more ZipZaps are impossible to race in a given venue. It is simply because ZipZaps only work at two frequencies – 49 MHz and 27 MHz.

If you are planning to buy ZipZaps radio controlled cars in the future, try to remember these pointers:

1. Set your budget

Even if most ZipZaps are more affordable than most hobby-grade radio controlled cars, they can still cost you a fortune. You must set aside a specific budget for your radio controlled hobby. You really have to set up a budget especially if you are just starting out with your hobby.

Starter kits for ZipZaps radio controlled cars are usually more affordable than other radio controlled cars. Maintenance and repairs are also more reasonably priced.

2. Learn to drive it

Buying ZipZaps may not be advantageous if you do not know how to drive a radio controlled car in the first place. Even if they are mini cars, they can be very powerful.

Just try to remember these pointers and you will surely get the best ZipZaps deals.

Chevy Radio Controlled Model Cars

August 8, 2011 by Mark 4 Comments

As far as variety goes, there are about as many RC cars as there are models of the real thing, and probably even more. Take for instance the Chevy. There is no lack of RC models available if you go for the classics in this arena; or for their sports car line, like the Chevy Corvette.

Chevy RCs are definitely more for the collector than the racer, unless you custom-make your RC racer to have the body of a Chevy, that is. Let’s take a look at some of the more popular Chevy RCs:

Muscle Machines 1957 Chevrolet

This comes in pretty big at a 1:8 scale and is truly a classic. Accessories included are the charger, battery pack, and features working headlights, a decidedly detailed interior, custom wheels, and super glossy paint. Average price is between $60-$80. Other Chevy Muscle Machine models available are the 71 Camaro and the Camaro Z28, also in 1:8 scale and similarly priced to the 1957 Chevrolet.

1969 Chevy Camaro Z28 RC Electric Car

Made by Playmaker Toys, this 1969 Camaro model is produced at a 1:18 scale and features working head and tail lights, and is a four-function car (as in forward, backward, left, and right). This is definitely for the real Chevy collectors out there, and at $30-$40, it’s not a bad deal at all.

1998 Chevrolet Corvette GTS IR Control Mini RC Car

For the mini RC fans out there, this Chevy is for you. It features a body that is all metal, racing tires made of rubber, and a miniature Corvette engine. The remote control wristwatch doubles as just that, a watch, and the mini RC car itself claims to mimic everything that its real nemesis does; this is probably because General Motors itself is said to have licensed this baby as a true 1:32 mini RC. This has a MSRP of $49.95 to $69.95 but can be bought at less than half that price at many online hobby stores.

Chevy truck models are also available as RCs – such as the Chevy SSR RC Truck and the Chevy 4×4 Monster Truck. Average prices for RC trucks are a little over $100, but if you’re lucky, some websites have them on sale for as much as 50% off.

Many Chevy owners who have at one point in their lives owned a classic are thrilled when they find model RCs that resemble the very cars they once owned. So, whether you’re just a beginning collector of classics, or if you’re a seasoned collector looking to expand your line of cars, then the Chevy is definitely the way to go.

The Basics Of RC Cars

July 30, 2011 by Mark 1 Comment

With a radio control system (signals from a radio), the model car is empowered go distances. This is basically how a radio control car works. A transmitter enables the user to make commands using the joystick, and the command is sent to the car via a receiver attached to the car. The real features and make of the full-sized counterpart of these said radio controlled cars are reflected in every way; making it one of the most popular hobbies, especially among men.

A radio control system for the RC cars contains the following: transmitter, receiver, motor and power source.

A handheld device, the transmitter makes use of frequencies to convert joystick commands into signals. It is usually powered by a battery. Radio controlled toys such as RC cars are usually wireless and rely solely on the frequencies generated by the transmitter. So it is very important that you have a well-functioning transmitter if you intend to use your RC car.

The receiver receives the converted signals from the transmitter. Usually circuits are tailored to suit the conversions into commands which the RC car will recognize and eventually execute.

The motor is the life of the car’s engine, for it makes the implementation of radio signal commands possible. Without a good motor, you can’t expect even the best of radio controlled cars to work its wireless magic.

Radio controlled cars can either be powered electrically or by nitro. Electrically powered ones are small but strong, and the power source, nickel-cadmium is rechargeable (similar to some cell phone batteries). Some radio controlled cars even use the same fuel combustion which can be found in real cars, only that they use synthetic oil, methanol and nitromethane for its mixture. Large models which are created even make use of gasoline and oil itself. It is even more suited for rough terrain than the real cars themselves!

Those which are powered electrically are much cleaner, weigh less and are less demanding for the user. Dust will be the only thing you will worry about with this type of radio controlled car. However these some types take longer to charge than usual. You can’t maximize it to be at par with the speed of the fuel-generated cars. It is also likely to overheat because it makes use of permanent magnets which are vital to its operation. Tire selection is also tedious for electrically powered radio controlled cars. Fuel-powered types are much faster and readily available in the market as compared to electrically generated ones.

Nascar RC Cars

May 12, 2011 by Mark 2 Comments

First things first, have you ever drooled over a Corvette or that enticing Dodge Viper; or wanted to own your very own NASCAR radio-controlled racing car? Relax; there are people out there who want the same things you do. This list is made for those who want to know how to buy that perfect radio-controlled car – NASCAR or any other type.

It is very important that you research good and relevant information prior to your purchase of a radio-controlled vehicle. Doing this allows you to acquire a wealth of knowledge that may be enough to help you make a well-informed choice.

One of the effective sources of information is on the internet where anyone could find out virtually all there is to know about anything and/or anyone. As much as possible, surf the internet and Google for as much information as you can on your radio-controlled vehicle interests.

Subscribe to a publication that has radio-controlled cars as its main interest – or visit a hobby local shop and ask to scan their literature on radio-controlled vehicles. You can get a fair idea of how to choose the RC vehicle that would work for you.

Contact and/or join a radio-controlled car club, especially if you plan to purchase a NASCAR RC vehicle. It pays to know who drives what and how.

Do not forget to attend events , By this it is meant those races that are sponsored or organized by NASCAR or any of the RC clubs you have in your local area. This allows you to be exposed to a lot of people and RC vehicles for your review and viewing.

As much as possible, decide on the money you are considering or willing to spend. This limitation allows you to narrow your purchase options. Also, try to decide what kind of action you want to start with, are you looking for an on- road or off- road action for your RC vehicle? This is important as there is a significant difference between a racing track that is paved and rough terrain.

Determining these details ensure that you will purchase a NASCAR RC vehicle that is perfect for your wants, needs, preferences and budget. Work from there and you will never go wrong.

RC Cars – Getting Started

April 27, 2011 by Mark 19 Comments

Within each person is a high, a desire to expand one’s horizons. While some require a huge physical and monetary challenge, embarking in a radio controlled car hobby is much less demanding and more practical to turn into a reality. But a radio controlled hobby is no joke to deal with. It could turn nasty if you don’t get yourself ready for it. The desire is just the start of passion and a time-consuming journey which can be one of your life’s’ greatest rewarding activities.

First you need to determine which you would prefer to have: toy RC kits or hobby kits. Hobby kits are higher in quality but require more expertise. A good way to test if the hobby is for you is by purchasing the toy kit first and then stepping up to the more sophisticated hobby kit if you get the feel for the hobby. Toy kits are assembled and even available in toy stores, while hobby RC cars require assembling capabilities and a bit more than basic knowledge.

There are a host of RC car types available for you, and only you can determine which suits your fancy. There are scale models which are 1/20 of the original, and there are others which are life-size or even bigger than the original. If you’re just getting started the smaller the better and more manageable. They vary in speed depending on size and power source.

There are two types of power source available for a typical radio controlled car: electric and fuel. In terms of speed, engine powered ones are more reliable and exciting to use. However, electrically generated ones are much more user-friendly as far as maintenance is concerned. Since you are beginner, always choose the lesser evil and upgrade to a higher challenge only when you are knowledgeable enough to do so.

Electric-powered motors require a radio system to keep them going. These include a transmitter, a receiver and servos. Servos are placed in both the vehicle and the receiver. They serve as connecting nodes between commands from the transmitter to the receiver. The battery pack is rechargeable, though it takes much longer to charge. Some tools for the hand are also needed for the routine maintenance checks.

Engine-powered ones also require a radio system. But its battery is non-rechargeable by electricity. An igniter is also needed, since it relies on fuel combustion to move it at awesome speeds. Nitro models don’t usually operate on gasoline. It requires a different mixture of chemicals for combustion. You will definitely need a bottle for fuel storage; lest you run out in the midst of the action.

Racing RC Model Cars

March 22, 2011 by Mark 3 Comments

Remote-controlled cars have evolved drastically from the time that they were conceptualized. Remote-controlled or RC car racing has become a favorite pastime for many enthusiasts, both young and old.

RC car racing incorporates the sheer thrill of racing with the additional challenges of handling something via remote control. One feels like a god controlling his car in a Formula One race track.

More and more people are attracted by the hobby of RC car racing. It is not only a good way to spend weekends with family and friends, it is also a good venue to compete and win. Winning in the RC racetracks entails several important things and this article tries to give some tips on how to know how to properly customize your RC car and what it takes for you to win on the tracks.

The body is essential

Choosing the right body for the right race track will play a great role in determining the success or failure of a remote-controlled car. RC car racing is a very competitive sport and there are hundreds of developments every week that are publicly announced. Make sure to read reports on what bodies work on what tracks.

Change your tires

Just like in any other car race, tires pretty much play a big role. The right kinds of tires should be employed. There are limitless options when it comes to tires. So how does one choose? Make sure that you know what kinds of tires are used by the previous winners on the tracks if you have the time.

Be early

This tactic does not have anything to do with the technical aspects of the game. Being early on the tracks on race day gives one the advantage of scoping the arena, it gives him ample time to set his station in the most strategic position in the area and it lets him see who the players are.

Avoid a major change in setup

A good racer will always come prepared when race day arrives. He has made the necessary preparations ahead of time and it is about time that he puts everything into play. No setup will ever be perfect. If one feels that his car is not in a maximum level, he should avoid major changes in setup. He should learn to adjust his driving skills to the current setup instead and probably make a few tweaks.

These are a few tips on RC car racing. The most important thing is to enjoy the races, the times and the people.

Collecting RC Model Cars

February 25, 2011 by Mark 5 Comments

A collection of radio controlled cars (RC for short) is a typical sight in the house of an avid automobile fan. If he enjoys car racing, whether it’s Formula 1, NASCAR, the Le Mans, or in general, chances are high that he has a collection of RCs. However, it is not limited to car fans. A lot of hobbyists also have collections of RCs. Collecting RCs can be compared with other collections like stamp collections, coin collections, model collections, etc. The difference is that an RC collection is usually more expensive than these aforementioned collections. It really depends on the individual whether he is interested in this type of collection or not.

Collecting radio controlled cars actually takes a lot of time and effort. An RC doesn’t come exactly cheap, so you should be prepared to spend money for it if that is what you really want. Aside from that, you have to spend time building the actual car so you can display it in your collection (unless you get a pre-built one). To make your collection rival that of others, you ought to have as many models of RCs as possible. Of course, this will take even more time and effort, which is why really avid car fans are the ones that usually own this type of collection.

If you have an RC collection or you decide to have one, you have a lot of options in terms of what to do with them. You can join various competitions – off road, straight line speed challenges, course challenges, and a lot more (assuming you indeed have different types of RCs). You can simply display them in a room or even in a glass case in your living room if you really meant to build them for display. Visitors can come and admire the work you put into putting the whole collection.

It would be nice if you have a collection and enter competitions. This way, you can win prize money to reimburse your expenses occurred when you put together your collection. In a short while, you might break even, and in a short time after that, you could be earning profit – simply by collecting radio controlled cars and joining RC contests.

Whatever your motive is in collecting radio controlled cars, it is a great hobby for car enthusiasts. The time and effort you spend will be replaced with deep satisfaction when you admire your own collection.

Buiding A RC Model Car

November 30, 2010 by Mark 2 Comments

Owning and playing with a radio controlled car (also known as RC) can be time consuming, but can generate a lot of fun and satisfaction. RC is a fun hobby for car enthusiasts; in fact, many owners pit their own RCs against other RC owners in a race (or series of races), sometimes with a hefty prize at stake.

RC as a hobby can be for adults and children alike, which is why it is not too surprising to see young kids facing off against much older opposition in RC competitions, and winning. Yes, even young kids spend time and money buying RCs and RC parts. They also build them, so if they can do it, you can too. It’s actually really simple.

Practice makes perfect is an old adage. Yet, it holds true, even in building your own RC. The first thing to do is to always check your manual first. Read through the instructions carefully, taking note of the easier things to do and the harder ones so you can plan ahead. It’s important to study the manual first before actually doing anything else.

Next, you have to choose a place to build your RC, as well as the tools to use. Choose a building area that is properly lit to avoid any difficulty in seeing, especially the small parts. Problems may arise when they fall or roll away, so it’s better if you can see them, so that you will not lose anything. In choosing your tools, you have to invest in order to reap more benefits. That includes properly sized screwdriver, pliers, etc. It is somewhat difficult to build an RC properly if you are lacking the right tools for the job. Don’t forget to use lubricants on the screws, for easier screw insertion.

Finally, build your RC following the instructions in the manual. If you did the first two steps (studying the manual and preparing the building place and tools), then you should not have any problems, or if any, just a few minor ones. For the radio controller, just make sure to calibrate it by placing the servos on center before installation. For the tires, make sure they are placed properly and do not face different directions.

Your RC is now complete! Have fun with it, race it against other RCs in a friendly match or join in RC competitions to see how it will fare against others.

Who Are The Top RC Car Manufacturers?

October 10, 2010 by Mark 7 Comments

Genuine basketball enthusiasts are aware of the significant role played by Wilt Chamberlain in the sport. If you wish to be able to have more fun with your radio controlled cars, knowing the history of RC cars will enable you to better appreciate what you have now.

Tamiya Is Number One

This Japanese toy company was better known for producing plastic or die cast toys. In 1976, however, Tamiya was the first to produce toy cars that were defined as “suitable” for remote control. The prototypes of RC cars were crudely built, but they still sold rapidly.

Afterwards, Tamiya was able to improve and innovate by focusing less on scaling and more on the toys’ radio control feature. The new RC cars produced by the Japanese toy giant were better looking, tougher, customizable, easy to repair, and with more powerful engines. These RC cars sparked worldwide interest in the hobby. Classic products from the Tamiya RC car product line include the Blackfoot and the Hornet.

Schumacher (Not Michael)

The UK firm Schumacher made a splash in 1980 by introducing the use of ball differentials in RC cars. This improvement allowed RC car hobbyists to enjoy quicker and smoother maneuvering on and off the track. In 1986, it produced the all-powerful Competition All Terrain (CAT) vehicle, a recipient of numerous World Championships.

Associated Electrics Powers Out

In 1984, this company, based in Costa Mesa, California, manufactured the RC10 off-road electric racer. It was the first RC car that Associated Electrics produced which did not use nitromethane-powered engines and was not for on-road use. An RC car that’s built to last and endure, the RC10 had a sleeker design, was made from non-corrosive, aircraft-grade aluminum alloy, and with powerful shock absorbers and differential featuring. Its design and features quickly made it the electric king of off-road competition.

Team Losi

Gil Losi Jr. was born to a racing family which owned the famous Ranch Pit Shop R/C racetrack in California. Upon establishing Team Losi, Gil created the JRX-2, a buggy that was immediately set in competition against the RC car of Associated Electrics. Team Losi’s also credited for being the first to use all-natural rubber tires and creating a whole new RC car category: the 1/18 scale Mini-T electric vehicles for off-road use.

Other important RC car manufacturers are the U.S. based Traxxas and the Japanese firm Kyosho.

These fine old companies continue to dominate the racing scene up to the present. Racing any of their cars will instantly make you part of the great history of the RC car industry.

Competitive Rc Car Racing Events

September 14, 2010 by Mark 5 Comments

Get ready Vin Diesel. Let’s see you do your thing in the smaller but meaner track of radio controlled car racing; you can’t be a genuine radio controlled car racing aficionado until you gain real experience in any of the major racing events held around the world.

Ready, Set, IFMAR!

The International Federation of Model Auto Racing is the United Nations of radio controlled car racing. No radio controlled car racing event is considered major if it’s not under the IFMAR umbrella. Established in 1979 by Ted Longshaw, the IFMAR was finally able to provide world-recognized standards for radio controlled car racing.

The Arms of IFMAR

The organization is able to keep track of remote controlled car racing events all over the world through its alliance with the following leagues:

Bonjour EFRA!

The European Federation of RC Automobiles is the top governing body in Europe. Member countries of this bloc include Great Britain, France, Italy, Switzerland and Greece among others. Just visit the EFRA headquarters if you wish to test your wheels in European grounds.

FEMCA: The Guru of Remote Controlled Car Racing

The Far East Model Car Association is the governing body for RC car racing in countries such as the Philippines, Japan, Brunei, China, Australia, and New Zealand. FEMCA is the best source of information for remote controlled car racing in this part of the world.

Let Your Car Growl through ROAR

Remotely Operated Racers is the leading RC car authority in the United States of America and Canada. Its race team is also the representative of these countries at IFMAR World Championship events. It’s also the leading producer of racing champions so if you want to test your skills against the very best, drop by at ROAR’s main office.

Hola y Arriba to FAMAR

The new kid in the block, the Fourth Association of Model Auto Racing, possesses membership of nations like Argentina, South Africa, and Uruguay.

Points of History in Radio Controlled Car Racing

The Competition All Terrain (CAT) vehicle is a legend of its own. The general public thinks of it as the crème de la crème in the 4WD off-road buggy racers. Produced in 1986 by Schumacher Racing products, the CAT proceeded to win numerous championships from 1987 to 1996.

The Losi family is credited for numerous inventions that radically changed the RC car racing industry.

Masami Hirosaka is the Michael Jordan or Tiger Woods of RC car racing; he has won first place in everything except the 1/10 category.

If it’s time for you to race your RC car, we wish you all the luck!

RC Cars Are Working Scale Models

August 23, 2010 by Mark Leave a Comment

The term radio controlled car ratio can refer to two things: it could be about car scales or the pulse proportional. Whichever you’re interested in learning, both explanations shall be provided anyhow.

Radio Controlled Car Ratio: 1:10 or Something Else?
These numbers don’t require you to perform mathematical equations in order to win a race so stop worrying. Rather, when a radio controlled car is described to be 1:10 or 1/10, this simply means that the radio controlled vehicle you’re holding is ten times smaller than an actual car. Keep in mind however that the majority of purpose-built racing vehicles do not possess accurate scaling.

Races are not only classified according to the radio controlled car ratio but also according to the track condition and engine or motor type. Examples of standard radio controlled car races are as follows:

1:12, Electric, and On-Road – For this race, your car must have an electric engine, with a 1:12 scale, and be suitable for on-the-road use. On-the-road use is simpler to navigate in than off-track conditions, and this is why most on-road radio controlled cars, regardless of their ratio or scale, are not as tough or durable as off-road RC cars. Electric radio controlled car models are also simpler to use because their engines stay cleaner longer and are easier to maintain than fuel-powered cars. Rear wheel Drive Cam Am-bodied cars are an example of the type of radio controlled cars eligible for this type of race.

1:10, Nitro, Off-Road – As for this race, the type of car qualified to join should have a 1:10 scale, using a nitro engine, and be able to negotiate off-road conditions. Novices will not be particularly suited for this race category because of two reasons: off-road conditions will require more driving experience; secondly, nitro cars are harder to maneuver because they’re heavier; and thirdly, nitro engines are more difficult to maintain than electric models.

At times, races may also have space and noise requirements so a 1:10 radio controlled model can’t always expect to qualify for all races that are for cars with a 1:10 scale. The IFMAR, the world’s leading authority in RC car racing, provides clear-cut rules for races. If the race you’re considering joining isn’t part of the IFMAR calendar, simply discuss any problems you may have with the racing coordinators.

Radio Controlled Car Ratio: Pulse Proportional
Also known as the Galloping Ghost, the pulse proportional of your radio controlled car, for a simpler definition, makes it easier for your car to complete turns and generally leads to better racing performance.

We hope you learned what you needed to know about RC car ratio. Good luck at the race: ka-chow!