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Radio Control model videos

Can I put a different body on my (1/8th scale, 1/10th scale, etc) car?

Absolutely. The general rule of thumb is "most 1/10 scale bodies will work on most 1/10 scale cars". The body might not fit exactly with the wheel wells and may need some additional trimming and possibly hole cutting for body mounting. You can simply find a body in the same scale as your vehicle and adjust it to fit your car.

How does a mechanical speed control work? What advantage do I gain with an electronic one?

A mechanical speed control works via resistors. The speed control functions by resisting the current sent to the motor at three levels. Driving slow on the first speed causes the resistor to absorb a lot of current. The resistor will heat up as it discharges this energy. If you spend most of your driving at slow speeds, you run the risk of burning out your resistor.

An electric speed control (ESC) works under a different principle. There are no resistors. You also have the benefit of fully porportional speed. Since ESCs do not waste current through releasing heat from a resistor, you will get extended running time from your batteries.

Note that you will need to be sure the electronic speed control can handle the motor you intend to use. If the motor you use has less winds than the specifications of your speed control, you may damage the speed control, the motor, and potentially your car.

How do I apply the decals included in my kit? Do I need to use water? Do I need to protect or seal the edges?

These are pre-adhesive decals. Simply trim around the decal shape with a hobby knife, lift carefully, (be sure not to stick it to your fingers!) and position the decal in the desired location. HINT: round edges rather than sharp points will minimize the chance of catching and peeling the decal back up.

To give your decals -- and your covering and seams -- the best possible protection you may want to consider covering the entire model in a thin layer of clear coat paint. Be sure to test the clear first to confirm it is compatible with your covering (for example, LustreKote and the paint on Coverite fabric are NOT compatible) and your decals.