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How to Build a Spare Parts Kit for Your RC Vehicle
Prepare for unexpected breakdowns and maximise your running time
Nothing is more frustrating than having your RC vehicle break down in the middle of an exciting session—especially if you don't have the right spare parts on hand. Building a comprehensive spare parts kit ensures you're always prepared to tackle repairs quickly, minimising downtime and maximising enjoyment. At Hearns Hobbies, we understand the importance of keeping your prized models running at peak performance, whether you're a weekend enthusiast or a serious competitive racer.
| RC Spare Parts Kit at a Glance | |
|---|---|
| Essential Components | Bearing kits, shims, spur gears and pinions, suspension arms, drive shafts |
| Key Benefits | Reduced downtime, enhanced performance, cost savings, customisation flexibility |
| Performance Upgrades | Brushless motors, upgraded ESC, premium shock absorbers, reinforced chassis components |
| Common Brands | Traxxas, Yokomo, Hot Bodies, and other top RC manufacturers |
Why You Need a Spare Parts Kit for Your RC Vehicle
Every RC enthusiast, whether a casual driver or competitive racer, knows that breakdowns are an inevitable part of the hobby. A well-organised spare parts kit ensures you can get back to the action quickly without frustrating waits for replacement components to arrive. RC vehicles endure significant stresses during normal operation, and components like bearings, gears, and suspension parts naturally wear down over time, even with careful driving.
Beyond simply addressing repairs, a comprehensive spare parts collection offers several additional benefits that enhance your overall RC experience. Regular maintenance and timely part replacements help prevent minor issues from cascading into major problems that could damage other components. This proactive approach can significantly extend the lifespan of your RC vehicle, protecting your investment and saving money in the long term.
YOKOMO Front Lower Short T-arm Purple
TRAXXAS Steering Blocks Left & Right
For those who participate in competitive events, the importance of a spare parts kit cannot be overstated. Most RC races have strict time limits for repairs between heats, and having the right parts on hand can make the difference between continuing in a competition and being forced to withdraw. Even for casual weekend drivers, being prepared means more time enjoying your hobby and less time waiting for parts to arrive.
Having a well-stocked spare parts kit is like having insurance for your RC hobby—you hope you won't need it, but you'll be incredibly grateful when you do!
Essential RC Spare Parts
Building an effective spare parts kit requires understanding which components are most likely to need replacement due to wear or damage. While the specific parts will vary depending on your RC model, certain components are universal must-haves for any comprehensive kit. High-wear items like bearings and drive components should be at the top of your list, followed by parts that commonly break during crashes.
| Component | Why It's Essential | Replacement Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Bearing Kits | Reduce friction, increase efficiency and prevent excess wear on drive components | Moderate - replace when noisy or rough |
| Spur Gears & Pinions | Critical for power transmission; plastic spurs wear down with regular use | High - especially plastic spurs |
| Suspension Arms | First point of impact in crashes; designed to break to protect chassis | High - common breakage point |
| Drive Shafts & CVDs | Transfer power to wheels; susceptible to twisting and breaking | Moderate - higher for high-power setups |
| Shims & Spacers | Fine-tune gear mesh and eliminate drivetrain play | Low - but essential for adjustments |
Beyond these primary components, your kit should include model-specific parts that are known weak points. For Traxxas vehicles, this might include steering components, while Yokomo drift cars often benefit from spare knuckles and steering blocks. Research your specific model to identify its common failure points and stock accordingly.
Pro Tip:
Consider investing in complete bearing kits rather than individual bearings. These kits typically contain all the bearings needed for your specific model and often cost less than purchasing bearings separately.
Performance Upgrades Worth Including
While building your spare parts kit, consider incorporating performance upgrades that enhance durability and performance. These premium components not only improve your RC vehicle's capabilities but often offer greater longevity than stock parts. Upgrading to aluminium or carbon fibre components for frequently broken plastic parts can be cost-effective in the long run, especially for aggressive drivers or racers.
Metal spur gears might cost more initially but significantly outlast their plastic counterparts. Similarly, hardened steel drive shafts can withstand much higher torque than stock ones, making them ideal for modified power systems. These strategic upgrades form a crucial part of a well-planned spare parts strategy.
- Aluminium Shock Towers: More rigid than plastic versions, maintaining precise suspension geometry even after impacts
- Titanium Turnbuckles: Lighter and stronger than steel, reducing unsprung weight while increasing durability
- High-Performance Shock Oil: Different weights allow fine-tuning suspension response for various terrains
- Ceramic Bearings: Reduce friction and improve efficiency, especially in high-speed applications
Essential Tools for Your RC Toolkit
A comprehensive spare parts kit should include the tools needed to perform trackside repairs efficiently. High-quality hex drivers, nut drivers, and specialised RC tools make the difference between quick fixes and frustrating delays. Look for hardened steel tools with comfortable grips to avoid stripping screws during urgent repairs.
Digital tools like a multimeter for electrical troubleshooting and a temperature gun for monitoring motor and ESC temperatures can help prevent component failures before they occur. These diagnostic instruments are particularly valuable for high-performance setups where operating temperatures can quickly reach damaging levels.
| Tool Category | Must-Have Items |
|---|---|
| Standard Tools | Hex driver set (1.5mm-3mm), Phillips screwdrivers, needle-nose pliers, side cutters |
| Specialised RC Tools | Turnbuckle wrenches, body reamer, lexan scissors, suspension arm tools |
| Diagnostics | Multimeter, temperature gun, gear mesh tool, ride height gauge |
| Consumables | Thread lock, silicone oil, contact cleaner, bearing oil, tyre glue |
Investing in a dedicated RC toolkit with foam cut-outs for each tool helps keep everything organised and easily accessible during urgent repairs. Premium tools might seem expensive initially, but they prevent costly damage from stripped screws or inappropriate tool substitutions.
Organising Your Spare Parts Kit
An effective spare parts kit needs to be well-organised for quick access during time-sensitive repairs. Clear compartmentalised storage boxes with adjustable dividers offer flexibility while keeping small components visible and accessible. Consider organising parts by vehicle area (drivetrain, suspension, etc.) or by frequency of use for maximum efficiency.
Label each compartment clearly, and consider keeping a digital or printed inventory that you can update as you use parts. This practice helps ensure you never run out of critical spares unexpectedly. For racing events, many competitors use multiple storage solutions: one comprehensive kit for the workshop and a smaller trackside kit with only the most commonly needed parts.
Organisation Tip:
Take photos of your organised spare parts kit when it's freshly arranged. These reference images make it easier to maintain your organisation system over time and quickly identify when specific parts need restocking.
For hardware like screws, shims, and pins, consider using small zip-lock bags within your main storage system. These prevent the smallest components from getting lost while keeping related parts grouped together. Small pill organisers work brilliantly for the tiniest components like bearings and E-clips.
Maintenance Schedules and Preventive Care
Establishing a regular maintenance schedule is just as important as having the right spare parts. Preventive maintenance helps identify potential failures before they occur and extends the life of your RC vehicle. After each running session, take time to inspect high-wear components like bearings and drive parts for signs of excessive wear or damage.
Different driving styles and environments will necessitate varying maintenance frequencies. Off-road vehicles running in muddy or dusty conditions require more frequent cleaning and bearing maintenance than on-road vehicles used on clean surfaces. Develop a maintenance routine that suits your specific driving habits and environment.
- After Each Run: Clean thoroughly, inspect for damage, check for loose screws
- Every 5-10 Runs: Check bearings, inspect gears for wear, verify proper differential action
- Monthly: Complete drivetrain disassembly and cleaning, differential maintenance, shock rebuild
- Seasonally: Replace all fluids, check electronics for wear/damage, comprehensive bearing replacement
Keeping detailed records of maintenance performed and parts replaced helps identify patterns and potential problem areas specific to your vehicle and driving style. This information is invaluable for refining your spare parts inventory over time to match your actual needs.
Remember: The most valuable part of your spare parts kit is the knowledge you gain from each repair. Document what breaks and why to continuously improve your driving technique and maintenance practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common RC parts that break?
The most common RC parts that break during regular use include suspension arms, drive shafts, spur gears, steering components, and shock towers. These parts experience the highest stress during operation and impacts. Suspension arms are often designed as sacrificial components to protect more expensive parts of your vehicle. For racing and high-performance applications, bearings and drive components also require frequent replacement due to wear.
How often should I replace bearings in my RC vehicle?
You should replace bearings in your RC vehicle when they show signs of roughness, excessive noise, or visible contamination. For average hobby use, this typically means every 15-20 running hours. Competitive racers often replace bearings more frequently—some before each major event. Environmental factors significantly impact bearing life; vehicles used in wet, dusty, or sandy conditions require more frequent bearing maintenance or replacement. Regular cleaning and proper lubrication can extend bearing life considerably.
Is it worth upgrading to aluminum parts?
Upgrading to aluminum parts can be worthwhile depending on your driving style and budget. Aluminum upgrades offer several benefits:
- Increased durability for high-stress components
- Better heat dissipation for components like motor mounts
- Improved precision and reduced flex in suspension components
- Less frequent replacement, saving money long-term
- Enhanced performance for competitive applications
However, aluminum isn't always the best choice for every component. Some parts, like suspension arms, benefit from the ability to flex or break away in crashes. Consider strategic upgrades focusing on known weak points in your specific Traxxas, Yokomo, or Hot Bodies model.
What should I include in a trackside repair kit?
A well-equipped trackside repair kit should include:
- Essential tools: Hex drivers, turnbuckle wrenches, and pliers
- High-failure parts: Suspension arms, drive pins, and spur gears
- Fasteners: Assorted screws, nuts, and shims
- Adhesives: Thread lock, super glue, and tire glue
- Electronics backup: Servo, ESC, and connectors (for major events)
Keep your trackside kit organized in a compact case that's easy to transport. Focus on including only parts you're likely to need during a typical running session, reserving your more comprehensive collection for home repairs.
How do I identify what specific spare parts my RC model needs?
To identify the specific spare parts your RC model needs:
- Consult your vehicle's instruction manual for parts diagrams and exploded views
- Research online forums dedicated to your specific model to learn about common failure points
- Keep track of what breaks on your own vehicle over time
- Contact specialty retailers like Hearns Hobbies for model-specific guidance
- Check manufacturer websites for parts listings and compatibility charts
Most RC manufacturers like Traxxas and Yokomo provide detailed parts breakdowns with identification numbers to make ordering replacements straightforward.
Conclusion
Building a comprehensive spare parts kit for your RC vehicle is an essential investment that pays dividends in reduced downtime, enhanced performance, and greater enjoyment of the hobby. By thoughtfully stocking critical components like bearing kits, spur gears, suspension arms, and shims, you ensure that unexpected breakdowns won't keep you sidelined for long.
The most successful RC enthusiasts understand that maintenance is not just about repairs—it's about prevention. Regular inspection and timely replacement of wear items can prevent catastrophic failures and protect your investment. Whether you're a weekend basher or competitive racer, a well-organized spare parts collection tailored to your specific RC vehicle provides peace of mind and maximizes your time enjoying the hobby.
Final Thoughts:
Remember that your spare parts kit should evolve with your driving style and experience. Pay attention to which components require frequent replacement and adjust your inventory accordingly. With the right combination of quality tools, essential spare parts, and preventive maintenance practices, you'll be prepared to handle almost any RC emergency—keeping your vehicles running at peak performance for years to come.