How to Maintain Your RC Car Like a Pro
Whether you’re tearing up the dirt tracks of regional NSW or zipping around a backyard course in suburban Melbourne, owning a remote control (RC) car is all about fun, speed, and control. But just like any hobby-grade machine, your RC car needs regular maintenance to keep it performing at its best and to avoid costly repairs down the track.
If you’re new to the RC world or simply want to get more life out of your rig, here are practical, easy-to-follow tips for maintaining your RC car like a pro.
- Clean After Every Run
It sounds simple, but many Aussie RC enthusiasts overlook the importance of a good post-run clean. Dust, mud, and grass can build up quickly, especially if you’re bashing in places like Western Sydney’s BMX tracks or the sandy backroads of Queensland.
Use a soft-bristle brush or compressed air to remove debris from the suspension, drivetrain, and wheels. For stubborn dirt, a slightly damp cloth (not wet) can help. Avoid hosing down the car directly, especially if it’s an electric model.
- Check the Screws and Nuts
With the rough terrain common in Australia, think rocky trails or clay tracks, vibrations and impacts can easily loosen screws. After a few runs, take five minutes to go over your car with a small hex driver or spanner. Focus on wheel nuts, suspension arms, and motor mounts.
Many RC car hobbyists here use a dab of thread-locking compound (like Loctite) on metal-to-metal connections to prevent screws backing out during high-speed runs.
- Clean and Lubricate the Bearings
Bearings are the unsung heroes of your RC car. They reduce friction and allow smooth movement in the wheels and drivetrain. Over time, especially in sandy Aussie environments, grit can wear them out quickly.
Remove the bearings, soak them in degreaser or specialised RC bearing cleaner, then let them dry fully before applying a light bearing oil. You’ll notice the difference in how freely your car rolls and turns.
- Inspect the Tyres and Suspension
Whether you’re racing on-road in Perth or tackling off-road in the Blue Mountains, your tyres take a beating. Check for splits, cracks, or worn-out treads. If you’re running foam inserts, make sure they’re not waterlogged, a common issue after wet weather runs.
Your suspension also deserves attention. Look for leaky shocks or bent arms. A worn shock absorber can drastically affect handling, especially during jumps or high-speed cornering.
- Battery Care is Crucial
For those using LiPo (Lithium Polymer) batteries, which are popular in Australia for their power-to-weight ratio—proper care is essential. Always store your batteries at storage voltage (around 3.7V per cell) and avoid running them too low.
Never charge a damaged LiPo battery, and always use a fireproof bag or container when charging. In fact, many local RC clubs in Australia won’t allow you to race unless you follow these safety guidelines.
- Keep Your Electronics Dry
Australia’s weather can be unpredictable, and driving through puddles or morning dew can ruin your electronics. Unless your RC car is fully waterproofed, avoid water altogether. For added protection, you can apply liquid electrical tape or silicone sealant to exposed electronics—just be cautious around cooling vents.
- Routine Drive Train Inspection
The drivetrain—the gears, shafts, and differentials—keeps your RC car moving. Check for grit in the gears, and ensure that your mesh (the way the pinion and spur gears fit together) is tight but not overly binding. Replace stripped gears early to avoid damaging the motor.
Looking After Your RC Car Means More Time on the Track
Maintaining your RC car doesn’t have to be complicated—it just takes a bit of time and consistency. In Australia, where conditions can be tough on RC vehicles, regular maintenance can mean the difference between a weekend full of fun and one spent hunting for replacement parts.
Whether you’re into casual bashing or competitive racing, giving your RC car the care it deserves will keep it running smoother, faster, and longer.