Otis Singleton
Converting a nitro RC to electric power can be a challenging task, and it's important to consider the potential difficulties in doing so. While it is possible to convert a nitro RC to electric power, it may be more cost-effective and less time-consuming to purchase a pre-built electric RC car. Older nitro RCs, in particular, may not take well to brushless power, and finding parts for them can be difficult. However, for those who are up for the challenge, there are some key steps to follow. These include disassembling the nitro engine, brakes, exhaust pipe, throttle servo, and nitro tank, and purchasing a motor mounting adapter. Additionally, it's crucial to select the appropriate motor and ESC for your vehicle, taking into account factors such as vehicle weight and gearing.
Characteristics and their values to convert nitro rc to electric:
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Motor | Electric |
| Motor mount | Rigid one-piece |
| Motor mounting adapter | Graupner 600, 550 size |
| Motor mount plate | Access to a machine shop |
| Motor mount bracket | 3D printed |
| ESC | Brushless, 120A |
| Battery | 3S LiPo, 7.4-14.8V |
| Pinion gear | Brass |
| Spur gear | |
| Receiver | |
| Servo | |
| Chassis | Easy bolt-in installation |
| Wires | Away from drivetrain components |
| Gears | 2 pinion, 2 spur |
| Body | RC8e body #89523 |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Disassemble the nitro engine, brakes, exhaust pipe, throttle servo and nitro tank
To begin the process of converting your nitro RC to electric, you will need to disassemble the existing nitro engine and its components. This is a delicate process, and it is important to proceed with caution to avoid damaging any parts that could be reused or repurposed.
Start by removing the raw, unburned fuel from the engine and draining the fuel tank. This is crucial, as fuel left inside can turn bad and cause clogging issues in the fuel lines. Once the fuel is drained, attempt to start the engine to burn off any leftover fuel in the fuel line and engine crankcase.
Next, focus on disassembling the nitro engine itself. Remove the cooling head, backplate, clutch bell, clutch shoes, and flywheel. Carefully detach the carb by removing the nut from the carb retainer screw and gently pulling it out. You can now proceed to remove the sleeve, piston, and crankshaft. To remove the sleeve, turn the crankshaft until it pops up, then grip and pull it out. For the piston, use a zip tie around the connecting rod, pull it off the crankshaft, and let the piston fall out by turning the motor upside down. To remove the crankshaft, apply pressure to the front of the shaft until you can grasp it from the backside of the motor.
Additionally, you will need to detach the brakes, exhaust pipe, throttle servo, and nitro tank. For the brakes, refer to specific instructions for your RC model, as different types of brakes, such as V-brakes, may have unique disassembly methods. Typically, you can pry off the little cap under the bolt, and the brake assembly will come apart. As for the exhaust pipe, throttle servo, and nitro tank, detailed instructions are not readily available, but consulting RC forums and seeking advice from experienced hobbyists can provide model-specific guidance for these components.
Kia Optima Hybrid Electric Brakes: How Do They Work?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Motor mount
If you choose to make your own motor mount, you will need to be prepared to drill holes in your chassis plate. One user recommends marking four spots through the threaded holes in your chassis plate, and then drilling 3.5 mm holes. This will allow you to attach your motor and motor mount to the chassis.
It is important to consider the stability of your motor mount. One user suggests creating a support for the motor so that it does not bend the motor mount. This can be achieved by using a piece of wood with a bevel, which can be secured with double-sided tape or glue.
Another user shares their experience of converting a 1/10 scale nitro buggy into an electric-powered rally car. They recommend a rigid one-piece motor mount that utilizes a standard motor screw mounting pattern. This type of motor mount has a large speed control mounting area, which is raised off the chassis to allow for easy screw mounting of common speed controllers.
Overall, when converting a nitro RC to electric, it is important to consider the stability and compatibility of your motor mount. While it is possible to make your own, there are also affordable options available for purchase.
Relocating Electrical Switches: A Step-by-Step Guide with Photos
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Motor and ESC
The type and size of the motor you choose will depend on the car you have and the performance you want to achieve. Brushed motors typically have a maximum speed of 20,000 RPM, while brushless motors can reach up to 30,000 RPM. For a 1/8 buggy, you may consider a voltage between 96 and 200 volts. A 2150kv brushless motor, for example, can be used with a 4S LiPo battery. If you are looking for a simple option, a 640kv motor on 4S and a 60A ESC would be a good combination.
The ESC you choose should be able to handle the power of the motor and the battery. A 60A ESC, for instance, can be paired with a 1000-1200kv motor. If you are using a 3S battery, a Brushed ESC will be suitable.
To install the motor, you will need to create a motor mount and a pinion gear. You may need to drill holes in your chassis plate to attach the motor and motor mount. It is important to ensure that the pinion gear aligns properly with the spur gear.
Converting a nitro RC car to electric can be a challenging task, but with careful planning and the right components, it is possible to achieve a successful conversion.
Electric Prong Imperfections: A Fire Hazard Waiting to Happen?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Battery
The battery is a crucial component of your RC car conversion, and you will need to choose between a Li-Po (lithium-polymer) or NiMH (nickel-metal hydride) battery. The voltage and capacity of the battery will determine how powerful your car will be and how long it can run for.
- Li-Po batteries are lighter and have a higher energy density, meaning they can provide more power for longer run times. They are also more expensive and require careful handling as they can be volatile if not charged and maintained properly.
- NiMH batteries are generally cheaper and safer to use, but they have a lower energy density, so they may not provide the same level of performance as Li-Po batteries.
Voltage and Capacity
The voltage of the battery will determine the speed and power of your RC car. Most RC cars use batteries with a voltage between 7.4V and 14.8V. The higher the voltage, the faster your car will go, but it will also drain the battery faster.
The capacity of the battery is measured in mAh (milliampere-hours) and indicates how long the battery will last. A higher mAh rating means the battery will last longer before needing to be recharged.
The size of the battery will depend on the available space in your RC car. The battery tray should be able to accommodate the battery size securely, with some room for foam pads to protect the battery. You may need to use hook-and-loop straps to secure the battery in place.
Some RC cars can accommodate dual batteries, which can provide more power and longer run times. However, this will also increase the weight and may require additional modifications to the chassis and electronics setup.
Ensure you have a suitable charger for your chosen battery type. Li-Po batteries, in particular, require specific chargers that can balance charge each cell to ensure safety and maximise battery life.
Batteries require proper care and maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines for charging, storage, and handling. Keep batteries away from extreme temperatures and ensure they are stored in a safe location when not in use.
Additionally, be mindful of battery discharge rates. High-discharge-rate batteries (such as those used in RC cars) can be dangerous if mishandled, so always use the appropriate safety gear and follow safety protocols when working with these batteries.
Understanding Titania's Unique Dielectric Properties: High Constant, Unique Behavior
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Electronics placement
When converting a nitro RC to electric, the first step is to remove the nitro engine and clutch and replace them with an electric motor. This will require drilling new holes to fit the motor, as well as fabricating a motor mount. The next step is to find a place for the electronics. A user on RC Talk Forum placed their electronics in a box that used to carry a holder with 4 AA batteries. Another user on the same forum placed their electronics in a new sealed receiver box.
The placement of the electronics will depend on the specific RC car being converted and the size and shape of the electronics themselves. It is important to ensure that the electronics are securely mounted and do not interfere with the movement of the car. The electronics should also be placed in an area where they can be easily accessed for maintenance and cleaning.
When placing the electronics, it is important to consider the wiring. The wires should be routed in a way that keeps them away from the drivetrain and other moving parts. This will help to prevent damage to the wires and simplify disassembly. It is also important to use the correct type of wire for the application and to ensure that the connections are secure.
In addition to the motor and electronics, a battery will also need to be placed. The battery should be placed in a secure location that does not affect the balance of the car. It is important to choose a battery that is compatible with the motor and electronic speed control (ESC) and to ensure that it is properly charged and maintained.
Converting a nitro RC to electric can be a challenging task, but with careful planning and execution, it is definitely achievable. It is important to consider the placement of the electronics to ensure that they function properly and do not impact the performance of the car.
Electrical Tape: Birth Defects and Vinyl's Dark Side
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
The motor mount plate is one of the hardest things to get right. Without access to a machine shop, there will almost always be some flex or imperfection in the mount that causes the motor to shift.
You will need an electric motor and ESC (brushed or brushless), a battery (Li-Po or NiMH), a piece of rail (bent 90°), a pinion gear, a couple of bolts, something to pull the thread, and the gear at the end of the original engine.
First, disassemble the nitro engine, brakes, exhaust pipe, throttle servo, and nitro tank. Then, put in the ESC, receiver, and battery. Fasten the battery with velcro.
