Molly Ayala
Converting a nitro car to electric can be a complex process. If you own a popular nitro car, like a 1/8 scale buggy, you can purchase a conversion kit that replaces the nitro motor and clutch with an electric motor and speed control, along with battery mounts. However, for less common cars, finding a suitable motor and making the necessary modifications can be challenging. Some people suggest that due to the weight and limited space in nitro cars, it may be more practical to buy an electric car as the base and focus on transferring the radio equipment.
Nitro to Electric Conversion
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Radio Equipment | Take out the radio equipment from the Nitro car and install it into an Electric car |
| Conversion Kit | Purchase a conversion kit that replaces the Nitro motor and clutch with an Electric motor and speed control, along with Battery mounts |
| Motor | Find a suitable motor for the car, which may involve drilling to get it to work |
| Pinion Gear | Create a pinion gear for the electric motor |
| Motor Mount | Create a motor mount for the electric motor |
| Battery | Requires a battery (Li-Po or NiMH) |
| Chassis | Bolt-in chassis installation requires no modifications |
| Wire Routing | Keep critical electronic wires out of drivetrain components and simplify disassembly |
| Spur Gear | Align the pinion gear with the Spur gear |
| Electronics | Find a way to attach electronics, such as by using a battery box |
| Flux Chassis | Convert to a Flux chassis, such as the XL, and use thicker flux TVP's for a beast look |
| Transmission | Replace the old 2 or 3-speed transmission with a Flux transmission |
| Front and Rear Diffs | The Savage 21 has awful front and rear diffs |
| Diff Oil | Use high-weight silicone diff oil |
| Centre Diff | Get the centre diff from rc4me |
| Motor Mount | With the alza centre diff, the motor mounts directly to the diff mount |
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What You'll Learn
- Conversion kits for popular nitro cars replace the motor, clutch, and speed control
- You'll need an electric motor and ESC, battery, rail, pinion gear, bolts, and thread
- Ensure proper pinion and spur gear alignment by adjusting the motor mount
- Use a battery box to store batteries
- Consider the pros and cons of conversion vs. buying a new electric car
Conversion kits for popular nitro cars replace the motor, clutch, and speed control
Conversion kits are available for popular nitro cars, which replace the motor, clutch, and speed control. These kits offer a straightforward way to switch from nitro to electric power, providing all the necessary components and instructions for the conversion process. The process is not overly complex, but it does require a solid understanding of the car's mechanics and some mechanical aptitude.
The first step is to carefully remove the nitro engine from the car, taking note of its configuration and connections. The electric motor can then be installed in its place, following the instructions provided with the conversion kit. It is crucial to select an appropriate motor that fits the car's chassis and delivers the desired speed. The motor's performance is controlled by the electronic speed control (ESC) unit, which is another essential component of the conversion kit.
The next step is to establish a power source by fitting batteries and ensuring they are correctly connected to the motor. This may involve soldering or using appropriate connectors. The battery's voltage and capacity will impact the car's performance, so choosing the right battery pack is essential. Some conversion kits may specify recommended battery configurations to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.
In some cases, additional modifications may be required to accommodate the new electric components. This could include drilling holes for mounting the motor and speed control unit or adjusting the positioning of other components to ensure a proper fit. It is important to carefully plan these modifications to avoid any damage to the car's structure or other critical systems.
Finally, after the conversion is complete, it is essential to test the car and fine-tune its performance. This may involve adjusting settings, such as ESC parameters, to optimize the car's acceleration and top speed. Regular maintenance and cleaning of the electric motor are also crucial to ensure the car remains in good working condition.
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You'll need an electric motor and ESC, battery, rail, pinion gear, bolts, and thread
Converting a nitro car to an electric one is a complex task, and it may be more cost-effective to trade in your nitro car for an electric one. However, if you are keen to convert your existing car, you will need to source the following parts: an electric motor and ESC, battery, rail, pinion gear, bolts, and thread.
The electric motor and Electronic Speed Control (ESC) are the heart of your conversion project. You can choose between brushed or brushless motors, but be aware that most older nitros do not take well to brushless power. You can find suitable motors for under $50. The ESC will cost you a further $50.
Next, you will need a battery to power your new electric motor. You can choose between Li-Po or NiMH batteries. Make sure you also purchase a battery box to store your battery safely and securely.
You will also need a piece of rail, bent at a 90-degree angle, and a pinion gear. You can use a brass pinion gear, or make your own by following the instructions provided by an online forum user:
> Put your pinion gear on a rod and put that on a drill (or a lathe) and use a file to make the diameter almost similar to the inner diameter of the gear on the original engine.
Finally, you will need some bolts and thread to secure your new motor in place.
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Ensure proper pinion and spur gear alignment by adjusting the motor mount
When converting from nitro to electric, ensuring proper pinion and spur gear alignment is crucial. Here are the steps you can follow to achieve this by adjusting the motor mount:
First, create a pinion gear for your electric motor. To do this, place your pinion gear on a rod attached to a drill or lathe. Use a file to shape the pinion gear until its diameter closely matches the inner diameter of the gear on the original engine.
Next, we'll work on the motor mount. Take a piece of paper and cut a hole in it that's slightly larger than the protruding part of the motor (typically around 13mm). Place this paper over the motor, and use a sharp object to poke through two holes where your bolts will go. Cut a piece of rail to the width of your motor and draw a vertical line down the centre. Mark half of your motor's outer diameter on this line, and drill a hole of approximately 14mm for some wiggle room. Insert your motor through the rail, and place the paper on the other side, transferring the holes you punched. Drill 3.5mm holes at these marks, and your motor should fit snugly against the bottom plate.
Now, you can adjust the pinion and spur gear alignment. Insert a piece of standard notebook paper between the pinion and spur gear before sliding the motor into place. Squeeze the paper between the gears, then tighten the motor screws. Remove the paper, and you should have a perfect gear mesh. Ensure the pinion gear is centred on the face of the spur gear, making adjustments as needed. Once centred, tighten the pinion set screw.
Finally, slide the motor towards the spur gear until the gears mesh, rocking the spur gear slightly to allow for some backlash. You want a slight amount of movement between the gears to ensure they don't bind up.
Additionally, consider using a thread-locking compound on the engine mount screws to prevent them from loosening due to vibrations. Also, when tightening the screws, use a cross-pattern, similar to tightening wheel nuts on a full-size car.
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Use a battery box to store batteries
When converting from nitro to electric, one of the essential components you'll need to consider is a battery box to securely store your batteries. Here's a detailed guide to help you with this process:
Choose a Suitable Battery Box
First, you'll need to select an appropriate battery box that can accommodate the size and number of batteries required for your electric conversion. Consider the type and quantity of batteries needed for your specific vehicle and choose a battery box that can safely store them.
Battery Box Kit
RC4me offers a battery box kit that is specifically designed for this purpose. Their battery box kit provides a secure and convenient solution for storing your batteries during the conversion process.
Mounting the Battery Box
To securely mount the battery box in your vehicle, you may need to purchase additional flux TVP's (Thick Vehicular Panels). These panels provide a sturdy base for mounting the battery box and ensure its stability during use. Consider thicker TVPs, such as the 5mm options from Alza Racing, for added strength and a more secure installation.
Battery Box Installation
When installing the battery box, follow the instructions provided with the kit. Make sure to securely fasten the battery box to the flux TVPs or any other mounting hardware you may be using. Ensure that the battery box is firmly attached and won't shift or move during vehicle operation.
Battery Placement and Access
Consider the placement of the battery box in your vehicle. It should be easily accessible for battery changes and maintenance while also being secure and safe from potential hazards. Ensure that the battery box is not placed in an area that may hinder vehicle performance or cause discomfort during operation.
Converting from nitro to electric power can be a challenging task, but with careful planning and the right components, like a well-mounted battery box, you can successfully make the switch. Remember to refer to online forums and seek advice from experts in RC vehicle conversions for additional guidance and tips throughout the process.
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Consider the pros and cons of conversion vs. buying a new electric car
Converting a nitro car to electric can be a complex process, and there are several factors to consider when deciding between conversion and buying a new electric car. Here are some pros and cons of each option:
Converting to Electric:
Pros:
- You can continue using the car you already own and are familiar with, avoiding the cost of purchasing a new vehicle.
- Conversion allows you to customise your car and choose the type of electric motor and battery that suits your preferences.
- Electric cars are generally easier to maintain and operate than nitro cars, requiring less frequent and less complex maintenance procedures.
- Electric cars are cleaner and quieter than nitro cars, as they do not produce smoke or engine noise.
Cons:
- Conversion can be challenging and time-consuming, requiring mechanical skills and knowledge of car systems.
- The process may involve drilling, modifying car components, and ensuring compatibility between the new electric system and the existing car structure.
- The cost of conversion, including the price of the conversion kit and any additional parts, may be significant.
- Depending on the age and model of your nitro car, finding a suitable conversion kit can be difficult or impossible.
Buying a New Electric Car:
Pros:
- You will have a wider range of options to choose from, allowing you to select a vehicle that best suits your specific needs and preferences.
- Newer electric cars may have advanced features and improved performance compared to converted nitro cars, including higher top speeds and faster acceleration.
- Electric cars often have lower long-term maintenance costs and are generally easier to maintain than nitro cars.
- You can avoid the hassle and potential complications associated with the conversion process.
Cons:
- Purchasing a new car entails a significant upfront cost, which may be higher than the cost of converting your existing vehicle.
- You will need to part ways with your current nitro car, which may still have usable components and sentimental value.
- The process of selling or disposing of your nitro car can be time-consuming and may incur additional costs.
- You may need to purchase additional accessories and equipment, such as batteries and chargers, adding to the overall cost.
In conclusion, both options have their advantages and disadvantages. Converting to electric offers the benefit of customisation and continued use of your current vehicle, but it can be complex and may not be feasible for all nitro car models. On the other hand, buying a new electric car provides access to modern features and improved performance but comes with a higher upfront cost and the need to part ways with your current vehicle. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your budget, mechanical skills, and the level of customisation and performance you desire.
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Frequently asked questions
The process of converting a nitro car to an electric car involves removing the radio equipment from the nitro car and installing it into an electric car. It also requires purchasing a conversion kit that replaces the nitro motor and clutch with an electric motor and speed control, along with battery mounts.
It is recommended to start with the motor mount and copy the mount from the conversion kit if possible. Additionally, ensure that the pinion gear aligns properly with the spur gear, and consider using a battery box to store the batteries.
Converting a nitro car to electric can be challenging and time-consuming. The process may require drilling holes and making adjustments to the motor mount and gears. Older nitro cars may not take well to brushless power, and there may be difficulty in finding parts for outdated models.
