30 Back Street, Peterhead, AB42 1TE

www.peterhead-puffers.co.uk

sales@peterhead-puffers.co.uk

01779 481102

The Model Shop

RC Nitro Powered Cars

RC Electric Powered Cars



Remote Control Cars - Peterhead Puffers


One of the most popular products in stock is the remote control or RC car.


There are three main types of propulsion, which are Petrol, Nitro and Battery. A lot of people will come in asking for a petrol car when they actually mean Nitro. The two fuels are completely different and not to be mixed up. The nitro fuel comes in different strengths denoted by a percentage amount - the common in use is 16% though others can be used. See my Fuel section.


Nitro fuel is a mixture on Nitro Methanol and various lubricants and is designed for the smaller engines found in most RC cars. Petrol powered cars are usually the larger ones with a 23 or 26cc, 2 stroke petrol engine similar to a mower engine. This uses petrol from the pumps which is then mixed with a 2 stroke additive.


Electric or Nitro?

This is a bit of personal preference with both types having pros and cons.


Nitro

Not always the easiest to get started, especially when cold and wet. It is not a simple case of taking it out and pulling the pull start. Some knowledge is required as to how to set up the engine to suit the type of day you are having.

The plus sides are that they are fun and have the noise and you can just fill up the tank and keep going. As long as you take along enough tools and spares if things start going “Peter Tong” they can be great fun.


Electric

The advance of technology with both the motor and battery has seen the electric car become a bit more popular than the nitro version.

In simple terms, you plug in the battery and off you go. The big “downer” is that the battery lasts 10 to 15 minutes and then require charging. Depending on your charger this can take up to 6 hours. This means that to make the trip worthwhile you need a few batteries in your bag. Batteries can vary in price and

The purchase of a good charger (£50 to £80) is well worth it as they can look after your batteries far better than the cheaper types.

In general a  battery car is easier to run, sometimes quicker and far less noisy.


Thoughts to have before you buy a RC car.


1. Where do you want to run it - tarmac or field?

2. How much do you want to spend?

3. Are you liable to annoy neighbours with the noise?

4. What type of fuel (nitro or battery) do you want to have?