So you want to get in to RC drifting? You’re in the right place for advice. Just read this simple RC drifting statup guide and you should have the knowledge of what you need to get started in the fast and furious world of RC drift.
Location, location, location
If you want to spend a lot of time with your drfit car then it helps if you have somewhere nearby to drive it. RC drift cars have specially designed tyres which enable to take corners at amazing angles. These tyres run best on certain drift-friendly surfaces such as tarmac, concrete, laminate and even carpet! It helps if you have a wide street to drift on or a flat area thats can allow you to make a few twists and turns. Make-shift tracks can be constructed on any flat surface. It helps if you remove any debris or stones before you begin your run.
Eventually you may tire of street racing so it’s always best to look up your local club where you will find like-minded drift enthusiasts that share your passion for drifting. Don’t be afraid of contacting a club. The members are always helpful and enthusiastic and your drifting skills will improve loads as you learn and compete with your new friends.
The basic needs of a RC Drifter
Stating the obvious here is that in order to drift you will need a car! As an RC drift novice you will either be a complete beginner to radio control cars or you will have had some experience of RC in a different class of vehicle.
For total novices that have no equipment or experience of RC then we recommend you purchase a drift car that comes as an RTR (ready to run, sometimes know as RTD, ready-to-drift) package. These cars will require minimum setup and other than charge and fit the battery and will generally get you drifting in very little time. Check that the RTR package is supplied with a charger and battery. If it doesn’t then order one with your new car! There is nothing worse than ordering a new RC car and finding you dont have a battery to get it running.
Make sure you always read the instruction in full before attempting to tamper with your new drift car!
For the more experienced RC fan, one who may already have many of the electronics associated with RC, you will probably require a drift car ‘kit’ that will require assembly. The highest specification kits often just include the chassis – no electrics, no body, not even wheels!
If you take the kit route you will need some radio gear to make it run. Which includes the following:
- Transmitter (stick or wheel type, is up to you). These usually include servo’s and receivers.
- Electronic Speed Control. This allows you to change the speed of your motor…
- Batteries: NiCD, NiMH, LiPO ect.. Bottom line is. You wont get your car moving, unless it’s got some juice.
- Charger: Even if you have batteries. You wont be able to use them, if you cant charge them.
Drift tyres
RC drift cars today use special hard-rubber tyres that lose traction easier than normal tyres. Each of the main RC brands make their own tyres specifically for RC drifting. Stick to one of these and you will find it easier to learn how to drift.
If you are particularly handy it is possible to make your own tyres using PVC or ABS piping around the wheels.
