Tuning for Increased 1/8 Scale Race Performance
Tuning Tips from ProTek RC PRO Driver Adam Drake
Are you looking to dominate the competition and leave them in the dust? Are you aggressive on the throttle, or do you prefer a smoother approach? Driving style and track conditions play a huge role in the roll of your car. These articles provide "Pro Tips" from our PRO Team drivers on how to tune your eighth-scale RC race trucks and buggies for the best performance.
True mastery comes from spending time on the track and testing different setups. So don’t be afraid to experiment and make changes, such as switching to a shorter arm or running a lighter front diff. And don’t be surprised if a change that seems insignificant on one surface makes a huge difference on another.
The laws of physics are the same for everyone, but it’s up to you to find the best configuration for your 1/8 scale RC race car to achieve maximum speed and control. So, take charge, and don’t settle for anything less than winning.
Choosing the Correct Tires Part 1 - Compounds
Selecting the right tire compound is crucial to ensure your vehicle performs well in a race. While tread patterns are essential, choosing the right compound can significantly impact your car's performance. Therefore, understanding the track conditions and scenarios is crucial to select the correct compound, which can ultimately lead to victory.
Choosing the Correct Tires Part 2 - Tread Patterns
Learn how to choose the right tires for your 1/8 scale race buggy. The tire tread pattern can significantly impact your performance on the track. Find out about different tire styles, including the Ellipse, Teazers, Reflex, Stalker, and Blocker, and learn which one is best for different track conditions. The right tread pattern can help your car gain more grip, improve steering, and make your rig run faster.
Tuning with Diff Fluid
Improve your 1/8 scale RC racing performance with Adam's tuning tips on differential fluid. Learn how to balance the front, center, and rear diff's on your vehicle by selecting the right thickness and how it impacts steering, stability, and grip. Achieve maximum speed and control on any track condition with these expert tips.
Tuning with Upper Arm Length
Learn how to improve your performance in 1/8 scale racing by tuning your car's upper front arm. Discover the impact of adjusting the length and how it affects the car's behavior on the track. Fine-tune your vehicle's performance based on your preferences and track conditions. Read on for expert tips and advice.
Wing Height & Styles
Learn from RC car expert Adam Drake about the best wing height and styles for your buggy or truck. Discover how to increase stability, improve corner speed, and adapt to different track conditions. Find out why the Mugen MBX8R and JConcepts F2I wings are his go-to choices and how to customize them to match your color scheme.
Steel vs. Ceramic Bearings
Looking to choose between steel and ceramic bearings for your RC car or engine? ProTek RC PRO Team Driver Adam Drake explores the topic and provides valuable insights. While ceramic bearings are preferred for nitro engines due to their lighter weight and corrosion resistance, they may not be worth the cost for overpowered electric vehicles. Steel bearings can perform similarly to ceramics in most applications, but in stock racing, small improvements can significantly affect lap times.
Tuning with Lower Content Fuel
Adam discusses nitro content and how to tune your engine with lower nitro content fuel. With countries limiting nitro content in fuel, he suggests three adjustments that can be made to maintain power, including switching to a larger venturi, adjusting head shims, and adjusting clutch settings.
Extend the Life of Your Nitro Engine
Looking to extend the life of your RC engine? Regular engine service is crucial, but how often you need to service it depends on how well you care for it, the quality of the air filter, and your driving conditions. Read on to discover expert tips for prolonging your RC engine's life and reducing the frequency of servicing.
1/8 Scale Tuning Videos from Adam Drake
Top 1/8 Scale Racing Brands
O.S. Speed
Futaba
ProTek RC
Kyosho
Mugen Seiki
Xray
Hobbywing
JConcepts
Team Associated
Tekin