Choosing the Right Brushless Motor for Your RC Car: A Comprehensive Guide
Hey there, RC aficionados!
Ready to feel the rush of adrenaline as your RC car zips around like a cheetah on steroids? You're in the right place!
Brushless motors are renowned for being the best motor for RC cars, offering high efficiency and overall better performances, and last a hell of a lot longer than their brushed counterparts.
But, no matter who you are or your experience with RC cars, making the change is not always easy. To switch that on its head, today we're deep diving into the world of brushless motors, walking through everything you need to know to choose the best and make the most of what a lack of brush offers.
Buckle up, and let's get started!
The Basics of a Brushless Motor
First things first, what's a brushless motor, and why is it so cool?
Simply put, brushless motors are the latest tech revolution in the RC world.
Unlike their brushed counterparts, they don't have brushes that wear out (obviously) and slow you down.
They're all about raw, untamed speed and longevity, giving you maximum fun with minimum maintenance!
Because of the lower friction and more optimized build design, these motors are more efficient, lighter, and more capable. This means a faster, more engaging, more streamlined driving experience that you'll notice the moment you put the pedal to the metal.
Types of Brushless Motors
Alright, let's get down to business and explore the more technical side of it.
Quite simply, there are two main types of brushless motors: inrunners and outrunners.
The difference?
Inrunners are like greyhounds - sleek, fast, and perfect for high-speed racing.
Outrunners, on the other hand, are like bulldogs - they might not be as fast, but they pack a serious punch in terms of torque, making them ideal for off-road and crawling adventures.
Which you choose is really up to you and what kind of driving experience you want. There's really no wrong answer as it comes down to personal preference, but we recommend, if you can, sampling both and seeing which works best.
But you're literally choosing the difference between going fast long-term or going fast in a short amount of time. Basically, you're getting nothing short of being fast!
Understanding Brushless Motor Specifications
Let's talk specs.
Two things you'll want to look out for are Kv rating and turns.
Kv rating tells you how fast the motor spins per volt applied, with a higher Kv meaning higher speed. The Kv sets the RPM (engine revolutions per minute), so basically, how much power you get.
The higher the Kv, the faster your car can go. The Kv, however, is set with an uploaded engine with a certain amount of power, so it's not a defacto rating, but it should give you an idea of what kind of performance the car/motor can give you.
On the other hand, "turns" refer to the number of windings in the motor – fewer turns mean more speed but less torque.
It's all about finding the perfect balance for your driving style and RC model!
Matching Your Motor to Your RC Car
And it's pretty much that easy.
That's what brushless motors do and have to offer. Faster speeds. More torque. Way more fun. Higher durability. Less prone to problems to wear and tear. It's clear why they're outperforming brush motors at every turn.
So, let's bring it back to you.
Matching your motor to your RC car is like finding the perfect pair of shoes.
A crawler will need a high-torque, low-Kv motor to conquer those steep inclines, while a racer will benefit from a low-torque, high-Kv motor to hit those crazy high speeds.
And remember, always check the power requirements of your RC car to avoid a motor that's too weak or too powerful.
Popular Brushless Motor Brands
Looking for recommendations? Brands like Traxxas, Castle Creations, and Tekin are known for their high-quality brushless motors. These brands have motors for all types of RC cars, and they're trusted by hobbyists worldwide.
Here at Bezgar, we also offer a ton of options.
Our best-selling HP161S is a brushless monster capable of reaching speeds of up to 38mph in less than a few seconds.
It's similar speeds for our off-road cars, too, like the HM165. We also have a selection of very affordable motor parts (many under $30) to help you effortlessly upgrade your existing car.
The choice is up to you!
Final Note on Switching to Brushless
While brushless motors offer significant improvements in speed, efficiency, and maintenance, it's important to remember that brushless motors require a compatible ESC (Electronic Speed Controller), so be sure to factor that into your upgrade plan.
And if you're buying a brushless motor RC from new, then you don't need to worry about it as the controller you get will come compatible as standard!
Conclusion
So there you have it, folks!
Your roadmap to choosing the perfect brushless motor for your RC car. Remember, it's all about finding the right fit for your specific model and driving style. Now, go out there and unleash the power of brushless motors!
FAQs
Q: Can I use a brushless motor in any RC car?
While it's possible, some cars might require modifications to accommodate a brushless motor. Always check the compatibility before making a switch. You need to make sure the new motor will physically fit in the car and can be secured properly.
Q: Is a higher Kv rating always better?
Not necessarily. A higher Kv rating means higher speed, but it also means less torque. A lower Kv motor might be a better fit, depending on your RC car and driving style. Either way, you can't go wrong with brushless.
Q: How do I maintain a brushless motor?
One of the best things about brushless motors is their minimal maintenance. However, you should still regularly check for debris and clean the motor with compressed air. Also, ensure that the bearings are well-lubricated.
Q: What's the lifespan of a brushless motor?
With proper care and regular maintenance, a brushless motor can last for many years. They are generally more durable and long-lasting than brushed motors.
Q: Are brushless motors waterproof?
Not all brushless motors are waterproof, but some are. Always check the product specifications if you plan to drive your RC car in wet conditions.
Q: Can I use my existing ESC with a new brushless motor?
This depends on your ESC. Some are compatible with both brushed and brushless motors, but others are not. Always check your ESC's specifications and compatibility.
Q: What is the best brushless motor for beginners?
As a beginner, starting with a motor that balances speed and control is best. Motors with a mid-range Kv rating and higher turns are generally more forgiving and easier to control.