La boite à outils du modéliste

Why do we need modeling tools?

Today most RTR (Ready to Run) kits offer a complete car with battery and charger that is ready to run without having to tinker with it first. Such a radio-controlled vehicle will surely accompany you for long kilometers, but one day an element will come loose or break. Repairs are often minor and accessible to beginners as long as you have the right tools. This is why modeling always comes with a variety of tools and we are going to list the most important ones in our eyes.

Modeler's tools

The modeler's pliers

You will be surprised by the usefulness of such pliers in model making . The modeller's pliers must be especially long and tapered to access the small parts of your radio-controlled vehicle. Sharp and precise enough to reach tight spots on the chassis, grab small parts like miniature nuts, install E-clips or bearings on ball pivots. The micro needle nose pliers from Hudy are a very good reference.

The modeling knife

The knife is a versatile tool very useful for model making . It will be very practical for many jobs such as cutting a sticker, a polycarbonate bodywork or even removing the insulating sheath from a wire. We will prefer a sharp and rechargeable tool like the Jconcept knife .

A set of metric hex screwdrivers

Most screwdrivers available on the market and the tiny Allen keys sold with the kits will not last over time. You must choose screwdrivers suitable for modeling and comfortable to use. For metrics, we recommend 1.5, 2, 2.5 and 3 mm, all present in the Dynamite RC set , for standards, 050, 1/16, 5/64 and 3/32 inches with the ultimate kit .

Phillips and flathead screwdrivers

The Phillips screwdriver and flat screwdrivers are basics in all modelers' toolboxes . For model making we recommend a small set of screwdrivers with 6 bits from Avio .

The reamer

It is when you want to make a hole in the body of your truck, lorry or car that the reamer will come in handy. Unlike conventional drills and knives, it offers fast, crisp, clean and precise perforation . Hudy reamers are known for their superior quality with a non-slip handle and an ultra sharp blade.

The mini cross key

Instead of buying several nut wrenches, choose a small cross wrench specially adapted for modeling and with a different size at each end. It will be useful in many cases such as changing a wheel, replacing spark plugs, etc.

Cutting scissors

Scissors are useful for cutting the bodies of radio-controlled vehicles . A good pair of scissors is essential in order to cut cleanly and not damage the bodywork. The curved scissors allow you to cut in a circle which is very practical for cutting out wheel arches for example.

The wheel wrench

Wheel wrenches are one of the essential modeling tools for removing or mounting wheels on your radio-controlled vehicles . Highly used, particularly during competitions, the wheel wrench must be particularly solid and durable. Check the size of the nuts and choose quality models like the Traxxas wheel wrench .

The spark plug wrench

The spark plug wrench is essential for the maintenance of your thermal vehicles . Lightweight, very handy and durable, the Arrowmax spark plug wrench is a very good model.

The soldering iron

The soldering iron is one of the model maker's essential tools. It is used to solder connectors on batteries and variators . We really appreciate the high-end Beez2B model which is programmable and intelligent.

The thermal probe

The thermal probe is essential to check the temperature of the thermal or electric motor and avoid overheating. We recommend the RC System laser thermal probe which allows you to take measurements quickly and remotely.

The rod wrench

The tie rod wrench is specially designed for adjusting the steering rods of your radio controlled car. A damaged or broken link can cause loss of control of the vehicle, so it is an essential tool for model building. The TLR tie rod wrench allows adjustment of 3.5, 4 and 5 mm tie rods.

Bricolage & maintenance
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