I started pretty early with Traxxas nitro cars. The first nitro car I started with was a Rustler, and I still have it.
These cars really can teach you the basics of auto mechanics. Even though it’s a toy, it functions like a real gas motor. This is for the RC collector who wants more than an electric car. It was about the sound; I wanted to hear the car when I played with it.
I’ve gotten pretty good at working on them, but it’s taken me some time. Most people don’t have the patience for Traxxas nitro, but it’s a good stress reliever for me. When I need to take my mind off the daily worries, I get my car out and tinker with it, checking the nitro plug and carburetor and making sure it has cylinder compression.
My current project is my nitro Slash, which I’ll work on over the winter.
The car that I’m most excited about is my Revo, which I purchased used. I was told that it runs, but I haven’t had any time to look it over. I purchased it about a year ago. It’s big, so I’m curious to see how it drives. It’s a little rough; the previous owner played with it quite a bit. When I finally get to it, I’ll replace everything and make it look new again.
I don’t mind playing with the cars, but I don’t jump or bash them. I’ll probably prepare it for next year’s local cars and coffee events. Everyone in my area brings their RC cars to parking lots to show them off like a car show. Some people play with them at the events, and others display them on tables.
Almost all of my Nitro cars were purchased and used except for my original Nitro Rustler, which is displayed in the picture. I decided to do that to save a little money. If you are new to these types of cars, I recommend getting one new. That way, you have a baseline of how it’s supposed to work.
I love the challenge of finding them used for a decent price and then restoring them. Most of the time, I will look for them on eBay. I’ve also had good luck buying from local people in my area. Most people are honest and will tell you why they are selling it.
One of the guys I know sold me a Traxxas Nitro Slayer. He mentioned he thought the motor was seized and needed to be replaced, so I got a really good deal. Thanks to WD-40 and a little bit of muscle, I had the car running within an hour.
