First build - What do I need?
 

Hi all,
I'm interested in building a RC car, completely from scratch. I intend to construct the chassis myself because I see it as a challenge and as an interesting project. Basically, I don't want to just buy something and screw it together.

I can handle the chassis, wheels, steering, etc. But when it comes to remote control I don't know where to start. Basically, from you guys I'd like some suggestions as to what I need (basically, everything electronic). For me the project is in building the chassis, so I need someone to list me all of the electrical components I need (tx/rx, motor, speed control, steering servo perhaps?) and maybe the best place to buy each.

I have considered just buying an existing RC car and stripping out the parts I need, but I think that would be more expensive. I have a limited budget for this, so let's keep it reasonable :)

Thanks in advance!

You're pretty much on the money re electronics - you need motor and esc, rcvr and transmitter and def a strg servo. What you need is somewhat size sensitive, are you building a 1/5th scale or 10th scale? You also need to decide on what radio system you're going to run - 2.4Ghz or one of the AM or FM freq (27 or 75Mhz)? Another issue - what type of batterys? If lipo, you'd be best to get an esc witha low voltage cutoff builtin that protects the lipo from overdischarge, but there are other ways to this with an esc that doesn't have an lvc too. If NiMh, theres no need for an lvc.


There's a ton of places you can easily ge all you need. Used wouldn't be a bad way to find all the pieces as long as they're in working condition.