Where should I spend the $$$???

[Drm31078]

In building my first RC and first kit on a budget, which electronics should I buy high quality and which electronics can I get away with cheaply for an initial build. Prioritize this list:

ESC
BEC
Motor
Servo
Radio
Battery

My thoughts were the following:

Go cheap on the servo and motor since those things will get beat up and will eventually need to be replaced (at which time I can replace with high quality). Also, since this is my first RC, I will be buying a motor that I may want to change depending on what kind of terrain I like (when I figure that out), so I should get a cheap one at first.

I should spend more money on items that won't need to be replaced based on preferences such as the ESC, BEC, and Radio. These things I could have for the duration of this rig and therefore spend some money on these as I figure out what I like. Plus if I get a Castle MMP, it includes ESC and BEC and has option for brushed or brushless. The radio, I go back and forth on...Get a Futaba 3PL or something cheaper? I definitely want at least 3 channel. I also go back and forth on a battery...get a hardcase 5000 3s lipo or just go with a cheaper 2s lipo?

What do you guys think of my logic?

[Randy Williams]

A lot of what you're asking depends on what you're building. A radio is important and if you go with a good one with model memory you can use one radio for multiple rigs, you'll only need to buy another receiver.

On the other hand for a fraction of the cost of the Futaba you can find 3 ch radios that work fine but won't have all the adjustments.

[Natedog]

Somewhat depends on the kit,which one you have on mind?

Quickrun 1060 waterproof esc, solar d772 servo, might not need bec. 35 turn vaterra sealed can motor same as ascender comes with. Flysky or Tactic 3 channel radio receive combo.

More info please on what you want to do and what type kit exactly.

[Drm31078]

Originally Posted by Randy Williams

A lot of what you're asking depends on what you're building. A radio is important and if you go with a good one with model memory you can use one radio for multiple rigs, you'll only need to buy another receiver.

On the other hand for a fraction of the cost of the Futaba you can find 3 ch radios that work fine but won't have all the adjustments.

Plan on building a wraith intended for more crawling than speed.

[Randy Williams]

ESC, motor and servo would be the most pricey in a rig. CastleCreations BEC is $20 to $25. Batteries would run about the same depending on brand. Read a bit on batteries though. High price doesn't mean high quality. I use Zippy 2s 30c 5200 mah hard packs. They are around $25 and last a couple hours on my SCX10.

If you're looking for comp crawler stuff someone else might need to chime in.

[Randy Williams]

Originally Posted by Drm31078

Plan on building a wraith intended for more crawling than speed.

This is personal opinion btw.
A lot of folks will agree Holmes Hobbies makes some outstanding products.
Look at his crawlmaster series of motors. I use the brushed 13t sport and love it.

I've seen a lot of people use the Tekin ROC412 brushless and they swear by it.

[Drm31078]

I have a feel for how much the quality stuff costs, been doing a lot of reading. My problem is that I can't afford all of the high quality stuff at one time...therefore, I am looking for where I should prioritize the money.

[Randy Williams]

Originally Posted by Drm31078

I have a feel for how much the quality stuff costs, been doing a lot of reading. My problem is that I can't afford all of the high quality stuff at one time...therefore, I am looking for where I should prioritize the money.

I'd say ESC, Motor, and Servo.

[tapped-out]

buy your electronics used from rcc classified get quality parts cheaper then new. or post a want add to buy someones RTR electronics to get your build going then upgrade from there..

[onebullet]

i agree, used is the way to go for a budget.

Dont be in a rush and search out deals. You can get a really good hitec 7955 servo brand new on ebay for 80 bucks every now and then. They are normally 100.

[Natedog]

Originally Posted by Drm31078

I have a feel for how much the quality stuff costs, been doing a lot of reading. My problem is that I can't afford all of the high quality stuff at one time...therefore, I am looking for where I should prioritize the money.

Reread my pay above then, that will get you crawling having fun and then upgrade when it breaks or wears out. I'm still using all stock RTR electronics in my Ascender. Yes they could be better, but they get the job done, area waterproof and I'm having fun!

Originally Posted by Randy Williams

I'd say ESC, Motor, and Servo.

Yes and no...quality doesn't have to be expensive. Nicer stuff can come later, the parts I listed are solid performers.

OP what is YOUR budget?

[Drm31078]

Originally Posted by tapped-out

buy your electronics used from rcc classified get quality parts cheaper then new. or post a want add to buy someones RTR electronics to get your build going then upgrade from there..

Makes sense...I am looking forward to getting access to the classifieds...I got my 30 posts in, but I need to wait two more weeks to get my 30 days in.

[Drm31078]

Originally Posted by Natedog

Reread my pay above then, that will get you crawling having fun and then upgrade when it breaks or wears out. I'm still using all stock RTR electronics in my Ascender. Yes they could be better, but they get the job done, area waterproof and I'm having fun!



Yes and no...quality doesn't have to be expensive. Nicer stuff can come later, the parts I listed are solid performers.

OP what is YOUR budget?

Under $500 would be nice...I am starting with nothing.