Building and maintaining RC cars requires precision and the right tools. Having the correct tools not only makes the process smoother but also ensures the longevity and performance of your RC vehicle. This guide highlights some essential tools, focusing on making your RC car building and maintenance tasks more efficient and enjoyable.
One of the first tools you’ll reach for during assembly and maintenance is a good set of side cutters. Freshly sharpened side cutters are invaluable for removing parts from their plastic trees. If you use sharp cutters and are careful, you can often remove parts cleanly without needing to file or sand away excess plastic at the cut line. A quality pair of side cutters can last for years if properly maintained. Consider using a Dremel with a chainsaw sharpener bit to keep them in top condition.
Another indispensable tool for any RC enthusiast is a multi-tool. These versatile tools come in handy for various tasks. When assembling shocks, for example, a multi-tool is essential for tightly gripping the shock shafts while you fasten the lock nut on the piston. Before tightening, it’s a good practice to clean the threads on both the nut and the shaft with an alcohol swab and apply thread lock. By firmly gripping the shock shaft with the multi-tool while tightening the nut, you minimize the risk of losing a piston during operation. This method, proven over many builds, ensures secure shock assembly.
When assembling shock cartridges, the skewer method is a game-changer. This technique, especially useful for diffs and shocks, simplifies the process and minimizes mess. Using a skewer to guide and assemble shock cartridges makes the task significantly easier and cleaner compared to traditional methods.
The multi-tool proves its worth again when fastening shock eyelets. Its ability to securely hold components allows for precise and firm tightening, ensuring the eyelets are properly installed without damage.
For shock caps, especially when setting up an emulsion style shock, the multi-tool is once again invaluable. It provides the necessary grip to secure the shock body while tightening the cap. Many builders find emulsion setups easier to rebuild consistently, and the multi-tool helps streamline this process.
Upgrading components can also enhance your RC car’s performance and maintenance. Consider upgrading to .4 shock mount screws, like the TKR1240. These screws often come with a convenient design, such as clockwise and counter-clockwise threads, simplifying shock removal. For instance, silver counter-clockwise screws mounted on the front passenger and rear driver sides allow for easy shock removal using the same 5.5mm hex, eliminating the need to switch bits.
Important Note: When tightening lower shock mount screws, avoid over-tightening. These screws are designed to stay in place and do not need excessive force. Leaving a minimal gap, around 0.1mm, between the screw head and the suspension arm is perfectly acceptable. Over-tightening can pinch the ball end, potentially warping the plastic and making future shock re-insertions difficult.
While not explicitly mentioned in the original text, another crucial tool, especially when dealing with suspension and steering linkages, is a ball link tool. These tools, often referred to as best ball link pliers for RC cars, or RC ball cup pliers, are designed to easily snap ball links on and off without damaging the plastic ball cups or your fingers. A good ball link tool review for RC cars will highlight features like comfortable grips, durable construction, and the ability to handle various sizes of ball links. Investing in a quality ball link tool can save you time and frustration, especially during frequent maintenance or setup changes. Look for reviews comparing different RC ball link tools to find the best ball link removal tool for RC cars that suits your needs. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned RC enthusiast, a dedicated ball link tool is a valuable addition to your toolkit, complementing the side cutters and multi-tool discussed earlier. Having the right tools, including a specialized ball link tool, makes RC car maintenance and assembly a much more efficient and enjoyable process.
