If you’re new to the world of RC drift cars and are looking to amp up your driving experience, this article is just for you. We’ll walk you through the process of performing basic upgrades on your beginner RC drift car, helping you take your driving skills to the next level. From enhancing traction to improving suspension, these simple upgrades can make a world of difference in the performance and handling of your RC drift car. So, grab your toolbox and get ready to unleash the full potential of your beginner RC drift car!
Table of Contents
Upgrading the Suspension
Replacing stock springs
If you want to improve the performance and handling of your beginner RC drift car, upgrading the stock springs is a great place to start. The stock springs are usually designed for general use and might not offer the precise control and stability that you need for drifting. Upgrading to aftermarket springs allows you to choose springs with different rates and stiffness to match your driving style and track conditions. This will provide better weight transfer, improved traction, and sharper steering response.
Upgrading to adjustable damping shocks
Another crucial upgrade to consider for your RC drift car is replacing the stock shocks with adjustable damping shocks. Stock shocks are usually set at a standard damping rate, which might not be ideal for drifting. Adjustable damping shocks allow you to fine-tune the damping settings to match your driving style and track conditions. By adjusting the damping, you can control the speed at which the suspension compresses and rebounds, providing improved stability and better control during drifts.
Installing stiffer sway bars
Adding stiffer sway bars to your RC drift car can significantly enhance its handling and cornering capabilities. Sway bars, also known as anti-roll bars, reduce body roll during cornering by transferring more force from the outside wheel to the inside wheel. This results in improved traction and reduced chassis roll, allowing you to maintain more consistent drift angles. Upgrading to stiffer sway bars will help keep your car planted and stable, especially during aggressive maneuvers.
Improving the Traction
Upgrading tires for better grip
The tires are one of the most critical components when it comes to achieving maximum traction in RC drifting. Upgrading your tires to ones with better grip is a surefire way to enhance your drifting performance. Look for drift-specific tires that offer a high level of grip on various surfaces, such as asphalt or carpet. These tires usually have a specific tread pattern and rubber compound optimized for sliding and maintaining control during drifts.
Using tire traction compound
To further improve the traction of your RC drift car, you can use a tire traction compound. Traction compound is a liquid substance that you apply to the surface of your tires. It helps increase grip by softening the rubber and improving the tire’s ability to adhere to the track. Applying traction compound can be particularly beneficial when you’re racing on low-grip surfaces or in colder weather conditions. Just remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the compound in moderation to avoid excessively altering the tire’s grip level.
Adding weight to increase traction
Adding weight to your RC drift car can significantly improve its overall traction and stability. By increasing the weight, you increase the amount of force pressing the tires against the track surface, resulting in better traction and grip. You can add weights in various areas of your car, such as the chassis or the wheels, depending on your preferences and the particular needs of your setup. Keep in mind that adding weight may also affect other aspects of your car’s performance, such as acceleration and top speed, so it’s crucial to find the right balance for your specific drifting style.
Enhancing the Steering
Upgrading servo for more precise control
Upgrading the servo in your RC drift car can greatly enhance the precision and responsiveness of your steering inputs. Stock servos are often designed for general use and might not deliver the speed and accuracy required for drifting maneuvers. Look for high-performance servos with faster response times, higher torque, and metal gears to ensure durability. With a more powerful and precise servo, you’ll have better control over your car’s steering, allowing you to execute precise drift angles and quick transitions with ease.
Installing a metal steering assembly
To further improve the steering performance of your RC drift car, consider upgrading to a metal steering assembly. Stock plastic steering components are prone to flexing under high loads, which can negatively impact the car’s responsiveness and precision. By swapping out these components with metal alternatives, you’ll minimize flex and play in the steering system, resulting in more accurate and consistent steering inputs. A metal steering assembly will also enhance the overall durability and longevity of your car, especially during intense drifting sessions.
Adjusting the steering geometry
Fine-tuning the steering geometry of your RC drift car is essential to achieve optimal handling and control. By adjusting parameters such as the toe-in, camber, and caster angles, you can tailor the car’s steering response to your liking. Increasing the toe-in angle, for example, can improve stability at higher speeds, while reducing it can enhance the car’s agility during tight drift maneuvers. Experimenting with different steering geometry setups will allow you to find the perfect balance between stability and maneuverability, resulting in a more personalized driving experience.
Upgrading the Motor
Replacing stock motor with a more powerful one
If you feel like the stock motor in your beginner RC drift car lacks the punch and speed you desire, upgrading to a more powerful motor is a logical step. A higher-powered motor will provide increased acceleration and top speed, allowing you to execute faster and more dynamic drifts. When choosing a new motor, consider factors such as its Kv rating (the motor’s RPM per volt), compatibility with your car’s electronics, and the type of battery you’ll be using. Be mindful of the motor’s heat dissipation capabilities, as drifting can put a significant load on the motor, leading to increased heat generation.
Upgrading the motor cooling system
When upgrading to a more powerful motor, it’s crucial to ensure proper cooling to prevent overheating and potential damage. Add-on cooling fans are a popular choice for keeping the motor temperatures in check during intensive drifting sessions. These fans effectively circulate air around the motor, dissipating heat and maintaining optimal operating temperatures. Alternatively, you can opt for heat sinks or cooling plates that attach directly to the motor to facilitate heat dissipation. Whichever cooling solution you choose, make sure it’s compatible with the dimensions and specifications of your upgraded motor.
Adding a brushless motor
Upgrading to a brushless motor is another option for boosting the performance of your RC drift car. Brushless motors offer several advantages over brushed motors, such as higher efficiency, increased power output, and lower maintenance requirements. They are generally more durable and can handle higher voltage levels, making them ideal for high-performance applications like drifting. Additionally, brushless motors provide smoother and more precise throttle response, allowing for greater control over your car’s acceleration and drift angle. However, keep in mind that switching to a brushless motor might require updates to other electronic components, such as the speed controller and battery.
Optimizing the Electronics
Upgrading the battery for longer run time
A longer run time can greatly enhance your drifting experience, allowing you to spend more time on the track before needing to recharge. Upgrading your RC drift car’s battery is an effective way to extend your driving sessions without frequent interruptions. Look for batteries with higher capacity (measured in milliampere-hours, or mAh) that are compatible with your car’s electronics. Consider factors such as the physical size and weight of the battery to ensure it fits your car’s battery compartment. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and safety recommendations when selecting and using batteries.
Installing a programmable electronic speed controller
To optimize the performance of your RC drift car, consider upgrading to a programmable electronic speed controller (ESC). A programmable ESC allows you to fine-tune various parameters, such as throttle and brake settings, motor timing, and punch control. By customizing these settings, you can tailor your car’s acceleration, braking, and overall power delivery to match your personal preferences and driving style. Programmable ESCs also often offer additional features like advanced motor protection and data logging, providing valuable insights into your car’s performance.
Adding a voltage regulator
In some cases, adding a voltage regulator to your RC drift car’s electronics can be beneficial, especially if you’re using high-capacity batteries or demanding power-hungry components. A voltage regulator ensures a stable and consistent voltage supply to your electronics, preventing voltage fluctuations that could lead to performance inconsistencies or damage. By maintaining a steady power supply, a voltage regulator can improve the overall reliability and longevity of your car’s electronic components. When selecting a voltage regulator, ensure it can handle the power requirements of your setup and is compatible with your car’s battery and ESC.
Improving the Chassis
Reinforcing the chassis for increased durability
As you progress in your RC drifting journey, you’ll likely subject your car to more intense maneuvers and higher levels of impact. Reinforcing the chassis is crucial to handle the increased stresses and ensure your car’s longevity. You can reinforce the chassis by using materials like carbon fiber or aluminum braces, which add rigidity and strength to the structure. Additionally, installing chassis reinforcements can help distribute the stress from impacts and prevent excessive flexing or bending. Strengthening the chassis will improve overall durability, stability, and resistance to breakages during aggressive drifts.
Upgrading the suspension mounts
Upgrading the suspension mounts is an effective way to enhance the performance and reliability of your RC drift car’s suspension system. Stock suspension mounts are typically made of plastic, which can flex or break under heavy loads and impacts. Upgrading to metal or aluminum suspension mounts provides increased strength and rigidity, improving the suspension’s ability to handle the forces generated during drifting. Metal suspension mounts also help maintain consistent suspension geometry, ensuring predictable handling characteristics and minimizing unwanted changes in camber, toe, or caster angles.
Installing a chassis brace
Adding a chassis brace to your RC drift car is a popular upgrade that offers multiple benefits. A chassis brace connects different parts of the chassis together, reinforcing the structure and reducing flex. This results in improved overall stability, responsiveness, and control during drifts. Chassis braces are typically installed in strategic locations, such as the front or rear bulkheads or the center of the chassis, depending on the specific design of your car. By adding a chassis brace, you’ll minimize chassis flex, allowing for more precise and predictable handling on the track.
Enhancing the Body
Upgrading to a lightweight body shell
Upgrading to a lightweight body shell can significantly improve the agility and maneuverability of your RC drift car. Stock body shells are often made of thicker and heavier materials, which can increase the car’s overall weight and negatively affect its performance. Look for body shells made from lightweight polycarbonate or other similar materials that offer high strength and durability while minimizing weight. A lighter body shell reduces the car’s inertia, allowing for quicker changes in direction and easier transitions between drifts. Additionally, a lightweight body shell can also contribute to better weight distribution and balance.
Adding aerodynamic accessories
To further enhance the performance and visual appeal of your RC drift car, consider adding aerodynamic accessories to the body shell. Aerodynamic accessories, such as front splitters, side skirts, rear diffusers, and spoilers, can help optimize airflow around the car, improving stability and reducing drag during high-speed drifts. These accessories can also enhance the visual aesthetics of your car, giving it a more aggressive and professional look. Choose accessories that are designed specifically for your car model and ensure they are securely attached to the body shell to withstand the forces exerted during drifting.
Customizing the paint job
Customizing the paint job of your RC drift car is a fun and creative way to make it stand out from the crowd. Whether you prefer a sleek, race-inspired design or a vibrant and eye-catching scheme, the possibilities are endless. Before painting, it’s essential to prepare the body shell properly by cleaning and sanding any imperfections. Then, choose a high-quality paint suitable for polycarbonate or lexan bodies and apply multiple thin layers for a smooth and even finish. You can also add decals, stickers, or other personalized touches to create a unique look that reflects your personal style and preferences.
Upgrading the Drivetrain
Installing a limited slip differential
Upgrading to a limited slip differential (LSD) is a significant improvement for your RC drift car’s drivetrain. A limited slip differential allows power to be distributed more evenly between the drive wheels, providing better traction and control during drifts. Unlike an open differential that sends power to the wheel with the least resistance, an LSD helps maintain more balanced power delivery, ensuring both wheels can maintain consistent drift angles. This results in improved stability and predictability, allowing you to control the drifts more precisely and maintain longer, smoother slides.
Upgrading the drive shafts to metal ones
The drive shafts play a crucial role in transmitting power from the motor to the wheels in your RC drift car. Upgrading the stock plastic drive shafts to metal ones can significantly enhance the drivetrain’s durability and efficiency. Metal drive shafts are more resistant to flexing and torsional forces, allowing for smoother power transfer and reducing the chance of the drive shafts snapping during high loads. Additionally, metal drive shafts can handle higher power levels without warping or bending, ensuring consistent performance even under intense drifting conditions.
Adding ball bearings for smoother operation
Upgrading to ball bearings is a simple yet effective upgrade for improving the overall efficiency and smoothness of your RC drift car’s drivetrain. Stock bushings or plastic bearings can introduce friction and resistance, which leads to power loss and degraded performance. By replacing them with high-quality ball bearings, you reduce friction and ensure smooth rotation, resulting in better acceleration and longer coasting distances. Ball bearings also improve the durability of your drivetrain components by reducing wear and preventing excessive heat buildup. Make sure to choose ball bearings that are compatible with your car’s specifications and replace the bearings in all rotating parts of the drivetrain for optimal results.
Improving the Electronics
Upgrading the transmitter and receiver for better signal range
Upgrading the transmitter and receiver system of your RC drift car is crucial for maintaining a reliable and interference-free control signal. Stock or lower-end systems might have limited range and suffer from signal dropouts, which can be frustrating and potentially dangerous during drifts. Look for higher-quality transmitters and receivers that offer longer range, improved signal stability, and reduced interference. Investing in a reliable and robust system will ensure you have full control over your car, even at greater distances, maximizing the enjoyment and safety of your drifting experience.
Installing a failsafe system
A failsafe system is a vital addition to your RC drift car, especially when pushing the limits of your car’s performance and distance from you. A failsafe system is designed to protect your car in case of signal loss or interference with the transmitter. It automatically activates when the signal between the transmitter and receiver is disrupted, instructing the car to stop or perform a predefined action to prevent accidents or runaway situations. Installing a failsafe system adds an extra layer of safety and peace of mind during intense drifting sessions, ensuring that your car remains under control even in challenging situations.
Adding telemetry sensors
Telemetry sensors provide valuable real-time data about your RC drift car’s performance and condition, allowing you to make informed adjustments and optimizations. These sensors can provide information such as motor temperature, RPM, battery voltage, and speed. By adding telemetry sensors to your car’s electronics, you can monitor critical parameters and ensure that everything is operating within safe limits. This information can guide your tuning decisions, highlight potential issues, and help you achieve maximum performance and reliability. Whether you’re fine-tuning your drift setup or analyzing your car’s performance, telemetry sensors offer valuable insights to elevate your drifting experience.
Fine-tuning the Suspension
Adjusting ride height and camber
Fine-tuning the ride height and camber of your RC drift car is crucial for achieving optimal suspension performance and tire contact with the track surface. The ride height refers to the distance between the chassis and the ground. Lowering the ride height can improve stability and lower the center of gravity, enhancing cornering abilities and reducing body roll. Camber, on the other hand, refers to the angle of the tires with respect to the ground. Adjusting the camber allows you to optimize tire contact patches during cornering, ensuring even wear and maximizing traction. Experiment with different ride heights and camber angles to find the setup that suits your driving style and track conditions.
Tuning the suspension for different track conditions
Each track presents unique challenges, and different suspension setups might be more suitable depending on the conditions. Fine-tuning the suspension settings, such as spring rates, damping, and shock mounting positions, allows you to adapt your RC drift car’s handling to different track surfaces and layouts. Softer springs, for instance, can help maintain better traction on low-grip surfaces, while stiffer springs are beneficial for high-grip tracks. Adjusting the damping settings can optimize the car’s response to bumps and sudden weight transfers, improving stability and control. By experimenting with different suspension setups, you can optimize your car’s performance and increase your competitive edge on various tracks.
Upgrading to adjustable suspension arms
Upgrading to adjustable suspension arms is an effective way to fine-tune your RC drift car’s suspension geometry and improve its handling characteristics. Adjustable suspension arms allow you to modify parameters such as toe, camber, and roll center positions, giving you more control over the car’s behavior on the track. Adjusting the toe-in or toe-out angles can impact stability and turn-in response, while camber adjustments can optimize tire contact and traction during drifts. Fine-tuning the roll center height can influence body roll and weight transfer, affecting overall grip and cornering abilities. Upgrading to adjustable suspension arms gives you the flexibility to tailor your car’s suspension setup to your desired performance.
In conclusion, upgrading your beginner RC drift car can significantly enhance its performance, handling, and overall enjoyment. By focusing on various aspects such as the suspension, traction, steering, motor, electronics, chassis, body, and drivetrain, you can transform your car into a high-performance drifting machine. Remember to choose upgrades that suit your driving style and track conditions, and always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for installation and usage. With each upgrade, you’ll gradually unlock your car’s full potential and elevate your RC drifting experience to new exciting levels.