If you’re a beginner in the world of RC drifting and looking to improve the performance of your car, upgrading its electronics is a great place to start. By enhancing the electronic components of your RC car, you can experience better speed, control, and overall driving experience. In this article, we will explore some of the best ways to upgrade the electronics in your beginner RC drift car, helping you take your drifting skills to the next level. So, buckle up and get ready to transform your car into a drifting beast!
Table of Contents
Upgrade the Motor
Brushless Motor
One of the best ways to upgrade the motor in your beginner RC drift car is to switch to a brushless motor. Brushless motors offer several advantages over brushed motors, including increased power and efficiency. They are also more durable and require less maintenance, making them a great choice for beginners. Upgrading to a brushless motor will provide you with more speed and control, allowing you to execute more precise drifts and maneuvers on the track.
Higher KV Rating
Another option to consider when upgrading your RC drift car’s motor is to go for a higher KV rating. The KV rating refers to the motor’s speed, with a higher rating indicating a faster motor. By upgrading to a motor with a higher KV rating, you can significantly increase the speed and acceleration of your drift car. This will make it easier to initiate and maintain drifts, as well as add excitement to your overall driving experience.
Sensorless Motors
Sensorless motors are another fantastic upgrade option for your beginner RC drift car. These motors are designed to operate without sensors, eliminating the need for additional wiring and reducing the overall complexity of the motor system. Sensorless motors are known for their smooth and precise throttle control, making them ideal for drift car applications. By upgrading to a sensorless motor, you can further enhance the performance and responsiveness of your RC drift car.
Enhance the ESC
Brushless ESC
In addition to upgrading the motor, it is also crucial to enhance your drift car’s Electronic Speed Controller (ESC). A brushless ESC is specifically designed to work in harmony with brushless motors, optimizing performance and efficiency. By upgrading to a brushless ESC, you can take full advantage of the power and capabilities of your brushless motor. These ESCs offer advanced features like high-frequency switching and improved thermal management, ensuring smooth and reliable operation.
Programmable ESC
If you want to have more control over your drift car’s performance, consider upgrading to a programmable ESC. These ESCs allow you to adjust various parameters such as throttle response, braking force, and motor timing. With a programmable ESC, you can fine-tune your drift car to suit your driving style and track conditions. This level of customization enables you to optimize your car’s performance for maximum speed, precision, and overall fun on the drift track.
Waterproof ESC
If you plan on driving your RC drift car in wet conditions or on surfaces that may expose it to water, upgrading to a waterproof ESC is a smart choice. Waterproof ESCs are specially designed to withstand moisture and ensure reliable operation even when exposed to water. With a waterproof ESC, you can enjoy peace of mind and continue drifting under various weather conditions without worrying about damaging your electronics.
Improve the Battery
Lithium Polymer (LiPo) Battery
Upgrading your RC drift car’s battery to a Lithium Polymer (LiPo) battery is an excellent way to enhance performance. LiPo batteries are known for their high energy density, which allows them to provide more power to your motor compared to other battery types. Additionally, LiPo batteries offer a higher voltage output, enabling your drift car to achieve faster speeds and better acceleration. These batteries are also lightweight and can be charged quickly, allowing for more extended drift sessions.
Higher Voltage Battery
If you want to take your RC drift car’s performance to the next level, consider upgrading to a higher voltage battery. A higher voltage battery will provide more power to your motor, resulting in increased speed and acceleration. However, it’s important to note that using a higher voltage battery may also place additional strain on your electronics. Therefore, it’s essential to ensure that your drift car’s motor and ESC can handle the increased voltage before making this upgrade.
Higher Capacity Battery
Another option to consider when upgrading your drift car’s battery is to go for a higher capacity battery. Higher capacity batteries have a greater energy storage capacity, allowing you to enjoy longer drifting sessions before needing to recharge. With a higher capacity battery, you can extend your drift car’s runtime and spend more time on the track. This upgrade is especially beneficial if you frequently participate in drift competitions or simply want to have longer driving sessions without interruptions.
Upgrade the Servo
High Torque Servo
An essential component to upgrade in your beginner RC drift car is the servo. The servo is responsible for controlling the steering of your drift car, and upgrading to a high-torque servo will greatly improve its performance. High torque servos deliver more power and force to the steering system, resulting in faster and more precise steering response. This upgrade is particularly important for drift cars as it allows you to execute quick and precise steering inputs, enabling more controlled drifts and sharper turns.
Metal Gear Servo
To enhance the durability and reliability of your drift car’s steering system, consider upgrading to a metal gear servo. Metal gear servos are constructed using metal gears instead of plastic, making them more resistant to wear and tear. These servos can handle higher loads and provide smoother operation, ensuring consistent steering control throughout your drift sessions. Upgrading to a metal gear servo will provide you with peace of mind, knowing that your steering system can handle the demands of intense drifting.
Digital Servo
For even more precise and responsive steering control, upgrading to a digital servo is highly recommended. Digital servos utilize advanced microprocessors to deliver faster and more accurate servo movements. They offer higher resolution and better holding power, allowing for more precise positioning and faster response times. With a digital servo, you can enjoy more precise drift control, enabling you to execute precise and controlled drift maneuvers on the track.
Install a Gyro
3-Axis Gyro
One of the most popular upgrades for RC drift cars is the installation of a gyro. Gyros help stabilize the car and improve its overall handling and control during drifts. A 3-axis gyro is an excellent choice as it can detect motions along three different axes, providing accurate stability adjustments. This type of gyro helps counteract unwanted oversteer and understeer, allowing for smoother drifts and more predictable handling. Installing a 3-axis gyro will make your drift car easier to control, especially for beginners.
Adjustable Sensitivity Gyro
To fine-tune the performance of your drift car and adapt to different track conditions, consider upgrading to an adjustable sensitivity gyro. This type of gyro allows you to modify the sensitivity settings, enabling you to customize the level of stability assistance provided by the gyro. Being able to adjust the sensitivity of the gyro allows for greater control over your drifts and gives you the flexibility to adapt to various driving styles and track conditions. With an adjustable sensitivity gyro, you can optimize your drift car’s performance and responsiveness to suit your preferences.
Drift-Specific Gyro
For those who are serious about drifting, a drift-specific gyro is a must-have upgrade. These gyros are specifically designed for drift applications, providing precise and accurate stability adjustments during drift maneuvers. Drift-specific gyros are optimized to counteract sudden changes in direction and maintain smooth and controlled drifts. With a drift-specific gyro, you can take your drift car’s performance to the next level, executing even the most challenging drifts with confidence and precision.
Replace the Receiver
2.4GHz Receiver
Upgrading your RC drift car’s receiver to a 2.4GHz receiver is highly recommended. 2.4GHz receivers offer improved range and signal stability compared to older generation receivers. With a 2.4GHz receiver, you can enjoy reliable and uninterrupted communication between your transmitter and your car, ensuring precise control and response. These receivers also have advanced frequency-hopping technology, which helps reduce interference from other RC vehicles or external sources. Upgrading to a 2.4GHz receiver will provide you with a more reliable and hassle-free drifting experience.
Telemetry-enabled Receiver
For those who want to get more information about their drift car’s performance during drift sessions, upgrading to a telemetry-enabled receiver is a great option. Telemetry-enabled receivers can transmit data such as speed, battery voltage, and motor temperature back to your transmitter. This real-time information allows you to monitor and adjust your drift car’s performance on the fly, ensuring optimal performance and preventing any potential issues. With a telemetry-enabled receiver, you can have a deeper understanding of your drift car’s performance and make informed decisions to improve your drifting skills.
Long Range Receiver
If you’re planning to drift in large open areas or participate in outdoor drift events, upgrading to a long-range receiver is essential. Long-range receivers have extended range capabilities, allowing you to maintain a reliable connection with your drift car even at greater distances. These receivers utilize advanced antenna technology to enhance signal strength and penetration, ensuring uninterrupted control over your car. Upgrading to a long-range receiver will give you the freedom to explore larger drift tracks and participate in drift events without worrying about losing control of your car.
Upgrade the Transmitter
Multiple Channel Transmitter
When it comes to upgrading your RC drift car’s transmitter, consider opting for a multiple channel transmitter. Multiple channel transmitters provide more versatility and flexibility by allowing you to control additional features or accessories on your car. With a multiple channel transmitter, you can assign specific functions to different channels, such as controlling lights or activating smoke generators. This upgrade gives you the freedom to customize your drift car’s functionality and add unique features to enhance your drifting experience.
Ergonomic Transmitter
To enhance comfort and reduce hand fatigue during long drift sessions, upgrading to an ergonomic transmitter is highly recommended. Ergonomic transmitters are designed with a more comfortable and natural grip, allowing for extended periods of use without discomfort. These transmitters often feature adjustable handles and trigger positions, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your hand size and preferences. Upgrading to an ergonomic transmitter will ensure that you can enjoy longer and more comfortable drift sessions without sacrificing control or precision.
Programmable Transmitter
For advanced users who want full control over their drift car’s performance, a programmable transmitter is a fantastic upgrade choice. Programmable transmitters allow you to fine-tune various settings such as throttle and steering response, endpoint adjustments, and mixing options. With a programmable transmitter, you can experiment with different setups and configurations to achieve the perfect feel and performance for your drifting style. This level of customization and control will enable you to take your drifting skills to new heights and improve your overall driving experience.
Enhance the Suspension
Upgrade the Shocks
Upgrading the shocks on your RC drift car is crucial for improving its overall suspension performance. High-quality, adjustable shocks allow you to fine-tune the suspension setup to match your driving style and track conditions. Upgraded shocks typically offer features such as adjustable damping and preload, enabling you to optimize the suspension’s response and handling characteristics. By upgrading the shocks, you can ensure better weight distribution, enhanced stability, and improved traction during drifts.
Stiffer Springs
To provide better support and control during drifts, consider upgrading to stiffer springs. Stiffer springs help reduce body roll and prevent excessive weight transfer, allowing for more controlled and predictable drifts. Upgraded springs also provide better stability, especially during high-speed maneuvers and aggressive transitions. With stiffer springs, you can fine-tune your drift car’s suspension setup and achieve the perfect balance between grip and maneuverability for your driving style.
Adjustable Dampers
Adjustable dampers are an essential upgrade to consider for your drift car’s suspension system. These dampers allow you to adjust the damping force to match different surface conditions and driving styles. By adjusting the dampers, you can fine-tune the suspension’s responsiveness and control, ensuring optimal performance during drifts. Whether you prefer a softer setup for better traction or a stiffer setup for more precise steering response, adjustable dampers give you the flexibility to dial in the perfect suspension characteristics for your drift car.
Modify the Drivetrain
Upgrade the Differential
Upgrading the differential is a significant modification that can greatly enhance your RC drift car’s performance. Differential upgrades include options such as limited-slip differentials (LSDs) or locked differentials. LSDs transfer torque between the wheels, allowing for more controlled and predictable drifts. Locked differentials, on the other hand, provide equal power to both wheels, promoting aggressive and high-angle drifts. By upgrading the differential, you can fine-tune your drift car’s traction and handling, ensuring better control and performance on the track.
Adjustable Slipper Clutch
Another critical component of the drivetrain to upgrade is the slipper clutch. The slipper clutch is responsible for regulating the amount of power transferred to the wheels, particularly during high-torque situations. Upgrading to an adjustable slipper clutch allows you to adjust the slipper setting, providing better control and tuning options for your drift car. With an adjustable slipper clutch, you can fine-tune the balance between traction and power delivery, enhancing your drift car’s performance and allowing for smoother and more controlled drifts.
Ball Bearing Set
Upgrading the ball bearings in your RC drift car’s drivetrain is a simple yet effective way to improve performance. High-quality ball bearings reduce friction and provide smoother rotation, resulting in improved overall efficiency and speed. By upgrading to a ball bearing set, you can reduce power loss and increase the drivetrain’s responsiveness, allowing for faster accelerations and better top speeds. Additionally, ball bearings also improve the durability of your drift car’s drivetrain by reducing wear and extending the lifespan of various components.
Upgrade the Tires
Drift Tires
When it comes to RC drifting, the choice of tires plays a significant role in achieving optimal performance. Upgrading to drift-specific tires is a must for any drift enthusiast. Drift tires are constructed with a unique rubber compound that allows for controlled slides and smooth drift transitions. These tires offer excellent grip on smooth surfaces, making them ideal for executing precise and controlled drifts. By upgrading to drift tires, you can achieve the perfect balance between traction and slip, enhancing your car’s drifting capabilities.
High Grip Tires
If you prefer a more aggressive and high-traction driving style, consider upgrading to high-grip tires. High-grip tires provide superior traction and handling, allowing for quick and sharp turns with maximum grip. These tires are particularly beneficial on rougher surfaces or tracks with more challenging traction conditions. Upgrading to high-grip tires will provide you with enhanced cornering abilities and improved overall control, making your drift car more versatile and capable of handling different track conditions.
Radial Tires
Radial tires are another excellent option to consider for your RC drift car’s tire upgrade. These tires are designed with a radial construction, which provides excellent stability and control during drifts. Radial tires offer improved sidewall support, allowing for more precise and accurate steering inputs. This upgrade ensures consistent performance throughout your drift sessions and allows you to execute controlled and smooth drifts with ease. By upgrading to radial tires, you can take your drifting skills to the next level and enjoy a more realistic and immersive driving experience.
In conclusion, upgrading the electronics in your beginner RC drift car is an excellent way to enhance its performance and take your drifting skills to the next level. From upgrading the motor and ESC to enhancing the battery and servo, there are various options to choose from depending on your preferences and budget. Installing a gyro, replacing the receiver, and upgrading the transmitter offer additional control and customization options for an improved driving experience. Upgrading the suspension, modifying the drivetrain, and choosing the right tires will further enhance your drift car’s performance and handling. With the right upgrades, your beginner RC drift car can become a formidable drifting machine, providing hours of fun, excitement, and thrilling drift experiences.