Get ready to take your RC drift car to the next level! In this article, we’ll be sharing the top 5 beginner-friendly upgrades that will enhance the performance of your RC drift car. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, these upgrades are guaranteed to improve your drift car’s agility, speed, and overall performance on the track. Get ready to drift with style and precision as we explore the world of RC drift car upgrades!
Table of Contents
1. Upgraded Tires
Soft Compound Tires
One of the most crucial upgrades for improving the performance of your RC drift car is to invest in soft compound tires. These tires provide a higher level of grip, allowing your car to maintain better traction while drifting. Soft compound tires are specifically designed to have a lower durometer rating, which means they are softer and stickier. This increased grip ensures that your car can slide smoothly and effortlessly around corners, making your drifts more controlled and precise.
High Grip Tires
In addition to soft compound tires, you can also consider upgrading to high grip tires. These tires are made from a rubber compound that offers even more grip than soft compound tires. With high grip tires, your RC drift car will have an enhanced ability to hold onto the surface and maintain stability during high-speed drifts. This upgrade is particularly beneficial if you frequently drift on surfaces with low traction or if you want to push the limits of your drifting skills.
Drift-Specific Tires
For those who want to take their RC drifting to the next level, drift-specific tires are a must-have upgrade. These tires are specially designed with a unique tread pattern that maximizes sideways sliding. The tread pattern usually consists of deep grooves and channels that allow the tire to break traction easily and smoothly. Drift-specific tires are perfect for advanced drifters who want to execute impressive and precise drift maneuvers.
Branded Tires
Another option to consider when upgrading your RC drift car tires is to invest in branded tires. Many reputable RC drift tire manufacturers have spent years researching and developing their tires to offer exceptional performance. Branded tires are known for their high-quality construction, superior grip, and excellent durability. While they may be slightly more expensive than generic tires, the performance and longevity they provide make them worth the investment.
Variable Tread Pattern Tires
Variable tread pattern tires are a versatile option that allows you to adjust the level of grip and control based on your preferences and the track conditions. These tires feature an adjustable tread pattern that can be modified by changing the direction or positioning of the tire. By experimenting with different tread configurations, you can fine-tune your car’s performance to suit various drifting styles and track surfaces.
2. Adjustable Suspension
Coilover Shocks
Upgrading to coilover shocks can greatly enhance your RC drift car’s suspension performance. These shocks feature adjustable spring preload, allowing you to customize the ride height and stiffness to suit your preference and track conditions. By fine-tuning the suspension setup, you can achieve better weight transfer, improved handling, and a more responsive drift car. Coilover shocks are particularly beneficial for experienced drifters who want precise control over their car’s suspension.
Stiffer Springs
To further improve the performance of your RC drift car’s suspension, consider upgrading to stiffer springs. Stiffer springs help reduce body roll, increase stability, and provide better control during high-speed drifts. By increasing the spring rate, you can optimize the weight transfer of your car and maintain better traction on the rear wheels. This upgrade is especially useful for advanced drifters who prefer a more aggressive and responsive drifting experience.
Adjustable Dampers
Adjustable dampers, also known as shock absorbers, are essential for fine-tuning your RC drift car’s suspension performance. These dampers allow you to control the compression and rebound damping forces, enabling you to optimize the car’s handling and stability. With adjustable dampers, you can easily adjust the suspension settings to match different track conditions and driving styles, ensuring your car handles and drifts flawlessly.
Camber Adjustments
Making camber adjustments to your RC drift car’s suspension is another effective way to improve its performance. Camber refers to the angle at which the tires make contact with the ground when viewed from the front or rear of the car. Increasing negative camber, where the top of the tire tilts inward, can provide better cornering grip and stability. Adjusting the camber angle to suit your drift style and track conditions can greatly enhance your car’s overall handling and traction.
Toe Angle Adjustments
Toe angle refers to the angle at which the tires point inwards or outwards when viewed from above the car. By adjusting the toe angle, you can fine-tune the responsiveness and stability of your RC drift car. Toe-in, where the front of the tires point inward, can improve stability during high-speed drifts, while toe-out, where the front of the tires point outward, can enhance cornering agility. Experimenting with different toe angles will help you find the optimal setup for your drifting preferences.
3. Upgraded Motor and ESC
Brushless Motors
Upgrading to a brushless motor is an excellent way to boost the power and performance of your RC drift car. Brushless motors are known for their efficiency, durability, and high torque output. Unlike brushed motors, which have brushes that wear out over time, brushless motors use electronic commutation, resulting in smoother operation and longer lifespan. With a brushless motor, your RC drift car will have improved acceleration, higher top speed, and better overall performance.
High Torque Motors
If you’re looking for even more torque and power, upgrading to a high torque motor is the way to go. High torque motors provide a significant increase in torque output, allowing your RC drift car to break traction more effortlessly and maintain better control during high-speed drifts. These motors are especially beneficial for larger and heavier RC drift cars, providing the necessary power to perform impressive drift maneuvers with ease.
Sensored Motors
Sensored motors are a popular choice among serious RC drift enthusiasts due to their precise throttle control and smooth power delivery. These motors feature sensors that provide feedback to the electronic speed controller (ESC), ensuring accurate and consistent motor response. Sensored motors excel in low-speed situations, allowing for precise throttle modulation and enhanced drifting control. If you prioritize throttle precision and smoothness, upgrading to a sensored motor is highly recommended.
High Performance ESC
Pairing your upgraded motor with a high-performance electronic speed controller (ESC) is essential to fully optimize your RC drift car’s performance. An ESC is responsible for controlling the motor’s speed and regulating the power delivery. Upgrading to a high-performance ESC will provide advanced features such as adjustable timing, motor protection, and programmable settings. These features allow you to fine-tune your car’s acceleration, braking, and overall performance to match your drifting style and track conditions.
Programmable ESC
For maximum customization and control, consider upgrading to a programmable ESC. Programmable ESCs allow you to adjust various parameters such as throttle response, brake force, motor timing, and more. With a programmable ESC, you can tailor your RC drift car’s performance to your exact preferences and optimize it for different track surfaces and driving conditions. This level of customization and flexibility ensures that your car performs at its best, giving you the edge on the drift track.
4. Lightweight Chassis and Body
Carbon Fiber Chassis
A lightweight chassis is crucial for improving the overall performance and handling of your RC drift car. Upgrading to a carbon fiber chassis offers significant weight savings without sacrificing structural integrity. Carbon fiber is a strong and lightweight material commonly used in high-performance RC cars. By reducing the weight of your chassis, you can improve acceleration, maneuverability, and responsiveness. A carbon fiber chassis also enhances the overall aesthetics of your RC drift car, giving it a sleek and professional look.
Aluminum Parts
Replacing heavy plastic parts with lightweight aluminum upgrades is another effective way to reduce the weight of your RC drift car. Aluminum parts such as shock towers, suspension arms, and steering components not only provide weight savings but also improve durability and rigidity. By replacing key components with aluminum alternatives, you can achieve a better weight distribution, resulting in improved handling and stability during drifts. Additionally, aluminum parts can withstand higher levels of stress and impact, making them ideal for high-performance drifting.
Polycarbonate Body
Upgrading to a polycarbonate body is not only a cosmetic enhancement but also a weight-saving measure. Polycarbonate bodies are lightweight yet durable, ensuring your RC drift car remains agile and resilient during intense drifting sessions. The flexibility and impact resistance of polycarbonate bodies allow them to withstand the occasional crash or collision without significant damage. Furthermore, polycarbonate bodies offer flexibility in terms of customization, as they can be easily painted and designed to suit your personal style.
Weight Reduction Techniques
If you’re looking to further lighten your RC drift car, there are several weight reduction techniques you can employ. One common approach is to remove unnecessary accessories or extra components that add unnecessary weight. This includes removing excessive decals, non-functional body parts, or accessories that are not necessary for optimal drift performance. Additionally, using smaller or lightweight electronic components, such as lightweight servos, ESCs, and receivers, can also contribute to weight reduction.
Aerodynamic Body Kits
To improve the aerodynamics of your RC drift car, consider installing an aerodynamic body kit. These kits typically include front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and rear wings that are designed to reduce drag and increase downforce. By reducing drag, your RC drift car can achieve higher speeds more efficiently. The increased downforce provides improved stability and better traction, allowing you to maintain control during high-speed drifts. Aerodynamic body kits not only enhance performance but also add a visually striking element to your RC drift car.
5. Performance Batteries
LiPo Batteries
Upgrading to LiPo (Lithium Polymer) batteries is one of the most significant performance-enhancing upgrades for your RC drift car. LiPo batteries offer a higher energy density than traditional NiMH (Nickel-Metal Hydride) batteries, resulting in increased power and longer run times. The increased power delivery of LiPo batteries improves acceleration and top speed, allowing for more aggressive and dynamic drifts. However, it’s important to note that LiPo batteries require specific care and charging procedures to ensure their safe and optimal performance.
High Capacity Batteries
For extended drifting sessions without interruptions, consider upgrading to high capacity batteries. High capacity batteries offer a larger energy storage capacity, allowing for longer run times between charges. With a higher capacity battery, you can spend more time honing your drifting skills and less time waiting for your battery to recharge. Longer run times also mean you can participate in longer drift sessions or drift events without worrying about running out of power.
High Discharge Rate Batteries
If you crave more power and performance from your RC drift car, upgrading to high discharge rate batteries is a game-changer. These batteries have the ability to deliver a higher current output, allowing your motor and ESC to operate at their maximum potential. The increased discharge rate provides a significant boost in acceleration and overall performance, enabling you to execute aggressive drift maneuvers with ease. High discharge rate batteries are particularly beneficial for advanced drifters looking to push the limits of their RC drift car’s capabilities.
Balance Chargers
Investing in a balance charger is essential when using LiPo batteries for your RC drift car. LiPo batteries require careful monitoring and balancing of individual cell voltages to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Balance chargers are designed to charge each cell of the LiPo battery individually, ensuring that all cells are balanced and charged to the appropriate voltage. This helps prevent cell damage, improves battery lifespan, and maintains consistent and reliable performance.
Spare Batteries
Having spare batteries on hand is always a smart move for any RC drifter. By having additional batteries, you can extend the fun and drift time without interruption. While one battery is being used, the other can be charging, allowing you to quickly swap batteries and keep drifting. Spare batteries ensure that you won’t have to wait for a battery to recharge after a few runs, enabling you to maximize your track time and practice your drifting skills to perfection.
6. Upgraded Steering System
Metal Servo Horn
Upgrading to a metal servo horn provides increased durability and precision in your steering system. Plastic servo horns may flex under high loads, leading to imprecise steering input and reduced control. Metal servo horns are more rigid, ensuring that your steering commands are translated accurately and consistently. With a metal servo horn, you can achieve sharper and more direct steering response, allowing for precise drift lines and tight cornering.
High Torque Servo
Installing a high torque servo is crucial for maintaining precise and responsive steering control during drifting. High torque servos provide increased steering force, allowing your RC drift car to overcome the grip of the tires and initiate controlled slides. The higher torque output ensures that your steering inputs are transmitted more effectively, providing better control and maneuverability during drifts. This upgrade is particularly beneficial for larger and heavier RC drift cars that require more steering force.
Fast Response Servo
For lightning-fast steering response, upgrading to a fast response servo is a must. Fast response servos boast faster reaction times, allowing for more precise and immediate steering input. This is particularly beneficial when executing quick transitions or rapid steering corrections during high-speed drifts. With a fast response servo, you can effortlessly navigate tight corners and perform intricate drift maneuvers with unparalleled precision.
Ball Bearings
Replacing the stock bushings in your RC drift car’s steering system with ball bearings is an inexpensive yet effective upgrade. Ball bearings provide smoother and more consistent rotation, reducing friction and improving overall steering performance. The reduced friction ensures that your steering system operates smoothly, allowing for precise and reliable steering control. With ball bearings, you can eliminate any steering play or slop, resulting in a more accurate and responsive drift car.
Steering Rack Upgrades
To further enhance the precision and performance of your RC drift car’s steering system, consider upgrading key components such as the steering rack. Upgraded steering racks often feature improved materials, design, and construction to minimize play and flex. By reducing play and flex in the steering system, you can achieve more precise and accurate steering input, resulting in tighter and more controlled drift lines. Upgrading the steering rack is especially beneficial for advanced drifters who demand precise and consistent steering performance.
7. Drift Tuned Gyro
3-Axis Gyro
A drift tuned gyro is a must-have upgrade for anyone serious about RC drifting. These gyros are specifically designed to help stabilize and enhance the drifting performance of your RC drift car. A 3-axis gyro detects and compensates for unwanted yaw, pitch, and roll movements during drifts, ensuring better stability and control. The gyro helps to maintain a smooth and controlled drift, allowing you to focus on executing precise drift lines without worrying about maintaining balance or preventing spin-outs.
Adjustable Gain Settings
Drift tuned gyros often come with adjustable gain settings, allowing you to fine-tune the sensitivity and response of the gyro to match your drifting style and track conditions. Higher gain settings provide stronger stability assistance, helping to maintain control even in challenging drift maneuvers. Lower gain settings offer a more natural and less intrusive drifting experience, allowing for more manual control. The adjustable gain settings allow you to tailor the gyro’s performance to your specific drifting preferences and skill level.
Compatibility with Transmitter
When selecting a drift tuned gyro, ensure that it is compatible with your RC car’s transmitter. Some gyros require specific transmitter models or support specific protocols to function properly. It’s important to verify the compatibility of the gyro with your transmitter to ensure seamless integration and optimal performance. Additionally, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for correctly installing and configuring the gyro to ensure proper functionality.
Easy Setup and Calibration
Drift tuned gyros are designed to be user-friendly and easy to set up. Most gyros offer straightforward installation procedures and simple calibration processes. The setup typically involves connecting the gyro to the receiver and configuring the gain settings. Calibration may involve a short initialization process to ensure accurate sensor readings. Manufacturers usually provide detailed instructions and support to facilitate the setup and calibration process, making it accessible even to RC drift enthusiasts with limited technical knowledge.
Anti-Drift Technology
One of the key features of drift tuned gyros is their ability to prevent or reduce drifting-induced yaw and spin-outs. Advanced gyros utilize anti-drift technology to detect and compensate for unwanted yaw movements, ensuring that the car maintains better stability and control during drifts. By reducing unwanted drift and yaw, these gyros allow for smoother drift transitions and more controlled drift lines. The anti-drift technology ensures that your RC drift car remains stable and predictable, enhancing your drifting experience.
8. Upgraded Transmission
Adjustable Gear Ratio
Upgrading to an adjustable gear ratio transmission is a game-changer for RC drifters. Adjustable gear ratios allow you to customize the balance between acceleration and top speed, tailoring your RC drift car’s performance to different track layouts and drifting styles. A higher gear ratio provides increased top speed at the expense of acceleration, whereas a lower gear ratio offers improved acceleration at the cost of top speed. With an adjustable gear ratio transmission, you can find the perfect balance for your drifting needs.
Ball Differential
Replacing the stock differential with a ball differential is a popular upgrade among RC drift enthusiasts. Ball differentials offer smoother and more consistent power transfer to the wheels, resulting in better traction and more predictable drifts. The ball differential allows for differential action between the wheels, allowing the wheels to rotate at different speeds during drifts. This helps prevent spin-outs and provides more precise control over the drifting angle and direction.
One-Way Differential
Another option to consider for your RC drift car’s transmission is a one-way differential. Unlike a traditional differential, a one-way differential allows the wheels to rotate freely in one direction while maintaining lockup in the opposite direction. This setup enhances cornering performance by reducing understeer and allowing for more aggressive steering inputs. With a one-way differential, your RC drift car can initiate drifts more easily and execute controlled drift lines with greater precision.
Metal Gears
Upgrading to metal gears in your RC drift car’s transmission is a smart move for improving durability and reliability. Metal gears are more resistant to wear and can withstand higher levels of stress and torque. This ensures that your transmission can handle the demanding loads associated with aggressive drifting without compromising performance. Metal gears provide smoother and more consistent power transfer, allowing your RC drift car to maintain its performance and drift smoothly.
Slipper Clutch Upgrade
Installing a slipper clutch upgrade is particularly beneficial for drifters who prefer a more aggressive and dynamic drifting style. A slipper clutch allows for controlled and adjustable wheel spin, enabling skillful control over the amount of power transferred to the wheels during drifts. The slipper clutch can be fine-tuned to prevent excessive wheel spin or provide a limited amount of slip, giving you more control over your drifts. This upgrade allows for diverse drift techniques and opens up possibilities for more impressive and complex drift maneuvers.
9. Upgraded Electronics
High-Speed Servo
Upgrading to a high-speed servo is a great way to enhance the responsiveness and precision of your RC drift car’s steering. High-speed servos offer faster operating speeds, allowing for quicker and more immediate steering response. With a high-speed servo, you can execute rapid steering corrections and navigate tight corners with exceptional accuracy. This upgrade ensures that your RC drift car’s steering keeps up with your drifting skills and provides the agility and control necessary for advanced drift maneuvers.
Programmable Transmitter
A programmable transmitter allows you to customize and fine-tune various settings to match your preferences and drifting style. These transmitters often offer adjustable steering and throttle endpoints, exponential rates, and mixing options. By programming the transmitter to your liking, you can tailor the feel and response of your RC drift car to suit your specific needs. The ability to fine-tune the transmitter settings ensures that your RC drift car responds precisely to your inputs, enhancing your overall drifting experience.
Telemetry System
Investing in a telemetry system provides invaluable real-time data about your RC drift car’s performance. Telemetry systems allow you to monitor parameters such as motor temperature, battery voltage, RPM, and speed. This data gives you insight into how your car is performing and allows you to make informed adjustments or optimizations. Telemetry systems also offer feedback for battery health and consumption, ensuring you’re aware of the battery’s condition during extended drift sessions.
Radio System with Multiple Channels
Opting for a radio system with multiple channels offers greater functionality and flexibility for your RC drift car. Multiple channels allow you to assign different functions or features to individual channels, providing independent control over various aspects of your car. For example, you could assign one channel for steering, another for throttle control, and a third for auxiliary functions such as lights or other accessories. A radio system with multiple channels enables more intricate and personalized control over your RC drift car.
Receiver with Advanced Features
Upgrading to a receiver with advanced features can significantly enhance your RC drift car’s performance and functionality. Advanced receivers often come with features such as fail-safe protection, improved signal range, and faster response times. Fail-safe protection ensures that if the signal is lost or distorted, the receiver will automatically engage a pre-set safety procedure, preventing crashes or runaway cars. Improved signal range helps minimize signal loss and allows for longer and more reliable range. Faster response times provide more immediate and accurate control over your drifting maneuvers.
10. Practice and Skills Development
Driving Technique Improvement
While upgrading your RC drift car with performance parts is essential, it’s equally important to dedicate time to improve your driving techniques. Practicing and honing your skills can have a significant impact on your drifting performance. Focusing on techniques such as throttle control, weight transfer, and steering inputs will enable you to execute drifts more precisely and confidently. Consistent practice, combined with the right upgrades, will help you master the art of RC drifting and become a skilled and proficient drifter.
Drifting Courses and Tracks
Seeking out drifting courses and tracks can provide valuable opportunities for skill development and improvement. Dedicated drift tracks often feature a variety of corners, surfaces, and layouts that simulate real-life drifting scenarios. These tracks allow you to practice different drift techniques, learn how to read the track, and adapt to various surface conditions. Drifting courses and tracks also provide the opportunity to interact with other RC drift enthusiasts, exchange tips and techniques, and learn from experienced drifters.
Tire and Suspension Tuning
Tire and suspension tuning are integral aspects of maximizing your RC drift car’s performance. Experimenting with different tire compounds, tread patterns, and suspension settings can drastically affect your car’s handling and drifting capabilities. Taking the time to understand how these adjustments influence your drift car’s behavior will allow you to fine-tune the setup to match your drifting style and track conditions. Tire and suspension tuning are ongoing processes that require continuous experimentation and assessment to achieve the ideal setup.
Understanding Weight Transfer
Understanding the concept of weight transfer is crucial for executing controlled and fluid drifts. Weight transfer refers to the redistribution of weight during acceleration, deceleration, and cornering. By manipulating weight transfer, you can achieve the desired drift angle and maintain control throughout the drift. Learning how weight shifts affect your RC drift car’s dynamics and practicing techniques such as power slides and weight transfer initiations are key to achieving consistent and controlled drifting.
Mastering Throttle Control
Throttle control is arguably one of the most important skills to master in RC drifting. Precise throttle inputs allow you to control the level of wheel spin and maintain the desired drift angle throughout a corner. Skillful throttle modulation enables you to balance the power delivery and traction, ensuring smooth and controlled drifts. Developing throttle control involves practice, patience, and a deep understanding of your RC drift car’s power characteristics. By honing your throttle control, you can achieve impressive and fluid drifts with absolute precision.
In conclusion, upgrading your RC drift car can significantly improve its performance and enhance your drifting experience. From upgrading tires and suspension to improving the motor and electronics, each upgrade serves a specific purpose in optimizing your RC drift car’s handling, power, and control. Combine these upgrades with dedicated practice and skills development, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming a master drifter. Remember, the key to success in RC drifting lies in finding the perfect balance between upgrades, technique, and personalization. Happy drifting!