Pipski Racing

TORCH wrap up the winter series.

2012-02-20T20:28:00.001Z

A nippy Sunday saw the final round of the TORCH winter series.

Over 50 drivers braved the cold to contest the final round of what has been a popular southern series.

We arrived to a frost covered winter wonderland of a track.

I have not been able to make it for most of the rounds and with nothing at stake decided to give the Losi 22 a day out on the astro. Regular readers will know I have just fitted a gear diff and installed a Darren Bloomfield setup which I was looking forward to trying out.

It would be nice to enjoy a fun day of racing with nothing at stake and no pressure.

It was a testing day, the frost thawed and the residual damp refused to dry leaving patches of standing water. Green mini-spikes were the poular tyre choice for the tricky conditions, Ballistics on the rear and Schueys on the front. Some drivers opted to give Dboots a try. No matter what the choice it didn't stop the car getting covered in astro gloop!

Looking forward to that post race cleaning session? . . . Err no!

It was a great days racing with conditions making for some close racing throughout the order. I was satisfied when I managed to qualify for the 2wd B final where I managed to give a good account of myself amongst decent company.

Congratulations to winners on the day:

John Wolfe 4wd

Glen Westwood 2wd

And winter champions:

Steve Brown 4wd

Glen Westwood 2wd

Full results HERE.

There would have been more pics but I made the schoolboy error of not charging the camera.

Thanks to the TORCH crew for another great championship.

I am already looking forward to the summer series which will doubtless be epic.

This week I will be prepping the cars and gluing up tyres for a trip to Maritime for the Off Road Wars World Cup. I'll make sure the camera is charged for that one!

Losi 22 Gear Diff . . . but Associated SC10 really!

2012-02-14T22:41:00.000Z

I have only run it a couple of times but have been struggling to make my Losi 22 diff work consistently.

I am the first to admit that I am not so experienced setting up 2wd slipper clutches so to be fair am probably the architect of my own problems.

Much as I would love to keep on blaming my equipment for my poor performances I have taken steps to eliminate this particular excuse from my not inconsiderable repertoire!

The solution?

A gear diff.

I struggled to find a UK dealer with the Losi gear diff on the shelf. I had read that the Associated SC10 gear diff was a drop in fit so opted for this instead. An added bonus was that it was a few pounds cheaper. Which, as long as it fits, is a result.

It is a well made unit with steel outdrives, metal gears and cross pins.

Those with metric only tool kits need not worry as the unit uses metric screws.

I assembled the diff as per the instructions and filled it with 3k oil, a straightforward job.

I will be running on carpet and astro so am not sure what will be best but it's a starting point.

Ok so the question you are all asking . . . Does it fit?

Yes.

It dropped straight in and seemed to mesh just fine.

There is a little lateral play, which some users might like to shim out, but it doesn't appear to be enough to cause a problem. Time will tell.

At the time of writing I have run the car on a wet astro track at TORCH and for a couple of heats indoors at Taplow.

My initial impressions are good.

What I like most is that it remains consistent during and between runs, something I didn't manage to achieve with the ball diff.

I now harbour hopes of avoiding 2wd embarrassment at future meetings, this diff and the adoption of a Darren Bloomfield set up may well facilitate such ambitions.

I'm sure I can find plenty of alternative ways to embarrass myself.

TORCH . . . Onwards & Upwards . . . Bring on the Regionals.

2012-02-04T17:47:00.000Z

2012 looks like being a big year for local club TORCH.
All the hard work put in by the lads recently has been rewarded with an invitation to host 2 and 4wd Regional meetings during the coming season.

In my opinion this is well deserved.

I have been racing here for a relatively short time but have seen the club go from strength to strength. There is, it seems, a will amongst the committee to keep pushing the club forward and as a result everytime I go along I see new evidence of this desire to improve.

Read more . . . (Click here)

Area51 ... RC's worst kept secret!

2012-01-23T19:58:00.000Z

It's a shame about the Petit and all the associated acrimony but as the saying goes 'The King is dead. Long live the King!" (Or for the French "Le Roi est mort, vive le Roi!")

So named because of the top secret location on military land in deepest darkest Oxfordshire this meeting was organised by the very capable crew from the Silverstone club.

If pre-event interest was any guide then this was going to be a big one.

270 entries across 3 classes (2wd, 4wd and SC) all looking forward to a weekend of racing and camaraderie.

The cars were prepped, the hotel was booked (2 nights in a Travelodge) and I was on my way.

We were greeted at the gate by security who checked us in, warned us to behave, and directed us to a big mysterious hanger which was to be our home for the weekend.

Read more . . . (Click here)

Bullistorm ESC update ... "The Test"

2012-01-22T21:15:00.001Z

I had decided to use the 60a version of this Bullistorm speedo in my 12th car. A change of plan means it has now been replaced by it's bigger 120a brother.

This is destined to end up in a sportsman stock touring car but in the meantime I wanted to give it an outing so I wired it into my spare Cat SX2.

Today I gave it a spin at TORCH, an off road club at which I am a member.

Here it is all snuggled up and ready for some off road action.

Read more . . . (Click here)

Ivan Mitchell Memorial Christmas Charity Cup at Adur MCC

2012-01-05T10:30:00.000Z

There was a decent turnout on a crisp Christams bank holiday for the annual Ivan Mitchell charity meeting at Adur Model Car Club on the south coast.

This annual inter-club event is held each year in memory of well known oval racer Bob Mitchells son who sadly passed away 5 years ago. The proceeds are donated to a nominated charity, this year it was the Royal Marsden Hospital.

This event is unique on the Adur calender because both the oval and on road circuits run concurrent meetings ensuring a great atmosphere and plenty of banter.

The nippy weather did nothing to discourage gratuitous displays of flesh. Even local superstar Chris Betts waived his huge . . . . . appearance fee to turn up and support the event.

Read more . . . (Click here)

"WARNING" - 1/12 racing can cause smiling!

2011-12-31T00:10:00.001Z

Horsham RC Club was my destination on Friday eve to give my Corally SP12X its first outing.

I was a little trepidatious as I have heard varying reports about how easy or difficult these little firecrackers can be to drive.

I wasn't expecting anything of the car or myself and had decided I would be happy if I could just get it round the track without causing too much distress to myself or any body else!

I was quite pleased when I turned up to find that, due to the holidays, it was a fairly quiet evening. A good meeting at which to cut my 1/12 teeth.

I bagged a spot next to a pal of mine, Greg Fairlie, an experienced 12th driver and Corally owner to boot. Excellent, just the man from whom to gather valuable advice and to steal Jack the Gripper tyre additive off of, the sauce of choice amongst the Horsham guys.

Gregs Corally on the left with a shiny new shell . . . not for long!

Read more . . . (Click here)

Time for a 1/12 virgin to pop his cherry.

2011-12-29T19:54:00.004Z

OK it's time for the talking to stop and the driving to commence.

I have managed to get my Corally SP12X ready for battle.

Over the last month or so I have been gathering together a range of budget conscious components.

These include a Team Powers 13.5t motor and a Hobbywing Xerun speedo from the spares box, a Savox SH-1250MG digital servo from flea bay and a Turnigy lipo from Hobby King.

Read more . . . (Click here)

Toastie digits!

2011-12-27T19:31:00.002Z

OK so this isn't strictly an RC product but for those of us that brave the British weather racing outdoors over the winter it's a great performance upgrade.

Whilst I am not claiming the message my brain sends to my fingers is the right one I do, at least, like it to get through. The trouble is when my fingers are frozen there appears to be something of a delay.

Not to mention those bloomin' screws and circlips that always develop a mind of their own as my digits succumb to the cold.

Thanks to this baby all my troubles are over . . . maybe.

This little beauty isn't a new invention by any means, indeed as a nipper I remember my dad lighting up one of these before an afternoon on the terraces watching our local footy team, and what's good enough for pop is good enough for me.

All you do is light the charcoal rod, pop it in the case and enjoy toastie fingers for up to 6 hours.

Under a tenner . . . A no brainer.

Merry Christmas & a happy new year.

2011-12-19T15:30:00.000Z

Well dear readers the festive season is once again upon us.
A time when every racer looks forward to getting loads of RC related gifts but actually ends up with pants, socks and crappy aftershave.

Oh well I remain optimistic . . . This just might be the year when Santa reads my letter and puts the elves to work on the Pipski list!

So happy holidays to fellow RC racers across the globe.
May you all have a great (insert appropriate festival here) and may your 2012 season bring great results and enormous trophies.

Thanks for coming along in 2011.

Keep reading in the new year when I will endeavour to entertain and inform, just for a change!

Apex Winter Open at SHRCCC

2011-12-12T11:55:00.000Z

I toddled off to Farnham last Sunday to get involved with Apex Models sponsored Winter Open at SHRCCC.

Problem is . . . I forgot my camera . . Doh!
So only a short review and just the one 'show-off' pic of my pot!

As usual the club made good use of the space available putting together a track with a decent selection of features to keep it interesting.

The turn out was reasonable with around 45 drivers making the effort.

I had a decent day with the SX3 managing 3rd overall behind a quick Terry Streeter in 2nd and impressive youngster, Ollie Crew, in 1st.

Dean Mandeville took the win in 2wd.
Everyone in attendance seemed to have a good time, most returning home with a smile, so well done and thanks to the organisers for putting on a good day.

SHRCCC have big plans afoot with a brand new outdoor astro track in the pipeline for 2012. Should be a venue to watch out for with regular Sunday meetings planned in addition to the evening meets of 2011.

In the meantime they continue to run their Thursday night indoor meetings until the weather improves.
Worth a look for your winter fix.

Corally SP12X . . . Moore-Speed Reynard 02S

2011-12-10T18:11:00.001Z

I have been waiting for the postman to get here, all the way from HK, with parts for my 12th car. The poor so and so will be knackered pedalling all that way on his little red bike.

In the meantime I have flourished the airbrush.

I have procured myself a Hot Bodies More-Speed Reynard 02S shell. It's probably not the 'whoop dee do' shell to have for this class but Nick at Demon had one in stock so that's what I've got!

Anyway, as a 1/12 novice I am sure it wont be long before I need another at which time I will have some experience and maybe just a little more idea about what I need (or maybe not!).

Read more . . . (Click here)

Bullistorm ESC . . . Bargain or B******t?

2011-12-03T10:00:00.000Z

In my determination to keep my 1/12 folly to a sensible budget I have just picked this up.

A 60a speedo, made by Bullistorm, that is capable of running all the latest HW timing boost software.

It is blatant Hobbywing copy and it remains to be seen if it actually works but for the price it was worth a little gamble.

From the outside it looks to be of reasonable quality but of course thats no guarantee of what might be on the inside.

Read more . . . (Click here)

Cat SX3 . . . FAB system.

2011-11-29T10:42:00.001Z

I have recently picked up a FAB (Front Adjustable Brake) system for my SX3.

The FAB comprises a fixed pulley for the mid belt and a one way pulley for the front belt. The one way pulley is sandwiched between a pair of slipper plates which provides an off power braking effect to the front wheels. The tension, and therefore the brake strength, can be adjusted via a nut in exactly the same way as the more familiar gearbox mounted slipper clutch.

Read more . . . (Click here)

Corally SP12X . . . 1/12 I'll give that a go!

2011-11-22T19:46:00.001Z

One of the few RC disciplines I haven't thrown a stack of cash at is 12th scale.
Well the time has come to change that.

Horsham RC club is an easy drive from me and they currently run a couple of heats of 1/12 on a Friday evening so, I thought to myself, why not get involved?

I am assured by much better drivers than myself that 1/12 cars are probably the most difficult to drive. Lightning fast reactions and total concentration are required to get these sensitive little cars round the track.
A big ask from a chap of my advancing years!

Read more . . . (Click here)

MKGP ... Indoor off road at its finest.

2011-11-21T16:43:00.001Z

It was off to Newbury at the weekend, to compete at the MKGP, an indoor off road event being held at the well known Newbury RC club venue.

So after an early alarm I arrived in the dark, bleary eyed, excited and nervous.

This was my first big buggy meeting and it was going to be a big one. Fully booked weeks in advance with 120 2wd entrants on Saturday and 100 4wd on Sunday. I was only attending on Sunday so was playing catch up from the start, most racers had made a weekend of it and the track remained unchanged overnight.

First lesson learned!

It was well organised and with plenty of room, tables and power all provided. I found a spot booked in and settled in. I was off the line in heat 3 at 8.16am.

Read more . . . (Click here)

Spoilt for choice at SHRCCC

2011-11-12T11:38:00.001Z

I have entered the MKGP which is being held at the home of the Newbury RC club on 18/19th November.

This is to be an indoor 1/10 off-road event running mainly on carpet, more specifically the actual carpet from SHRCCC.

With this in mind last Thursday I made the trip to Farnham to have a run with some (all) of my cars in an effort to to establish some kind of battle plan with the aim of minimizing potential embarrassment come race day.

Dudders set up a great little track with a variety of obstacles including a cross over, a couple of table tops, one being on a corner and some slippy stuff. It was all crammed into a fairly small space but more than enough to test any car.

Read more . . . (Click here)

Sweep EX30P-PP Tyres . . Update

2011-11-09T20:21:00.000Z

At the last Adur MCC club meeting I used the Sweep EX30P-PP tyres. I liked the way they performed so thought I'd write a short update for those that are interested.

Being a parsimonious chap I intend to run these for as long as I can get away with so I broke them out again for the last round of the Adur MCC summer (?!) series last Sunday.

It seems my £22 was well spent as they gave me another decent days racing. It wasn't a fast track on Sunday as it hadn't been used for a few weeks and the weather had scrubbed it clean so it was pretty green.

Read more . . . (Click here)

Get a grip Pip!

2011-11-09T17:07:00.000Z

I think I may have got a little carried away with my buggy fetish.

I am hoping this admission in front of my peers is the first step on the road to recovery.

It all started back in the Summer when I met, what seemed like, a nice guy. His name was Neil 'Dudders' Dudman and he was about to set up a new off road club SHRCCC.

I trusted him when he assured me what he was offering was just harmless fun and that I would meet, and enjoy the company of, other people just like me.

Little did I know then that it would lead to this.

Read more . . . (Click here)

Mi4LP SpecR front gear diff

2011-11-08T21:56:00.001Z

Fed up with destroying my buggies on a weekly basis I decided to ring the changes at the weekend.

I popped the Mi4 on to the set-up station and prepped it for a days club racing at the Adur MCC circuit.

A bit of a gamble given the preceding weather but one that turned out to be worthwhile as Sunday dawned chilly but dry.

I don't know about you but now the mornings are getting cold and dark a strong will is required to get me to the track on a Sunday!

Part of the resaon for this effort was to try out my new SpecR diff. No not that one, I have treated myself to another for the front.

I built it up, filled it with 500,000wt oil, and popped it in the pit box. (Yes 500,000wt)

I ran the spool in heat one for comparison purposes but then dropped in the diff and ran it for the rest of the day, 3 more qualys and two finals.

It was a slippery day and grip was slow to come up so it's difficult to come to a definitive conclusion but my feeling is that I will not be removing this diff anytime soon. It seemed to suit my driving style, giving me just a little more entry steering and sacrificing almost nothing at the exit all the while remaining predictable.

Nice.

It was a small field but I managed to win all my heats and both finals, just the fillip I need after the last few weeks.

So my money wasn't wasted on another useless 'go faster' item and I had a good days racing to boot, I returned home happy.

This time!

Cat SX3 upgraded 'Bando' belts

2011-11-07T19:40:00.000Z

SX3 drivers now have options when it comes to drive belts.

Some have experienced high wear rates and fraying on their standard belts, regular readers might recall that this includes me.

The solution to this problem is now at hand in the shape of some upgraded Bando belts recently released by Schumacher.

Japan based Bando know a thing or two about belts, they have been making and supplying belts to industrial and automotive OEMs for over a hundred years. Suffice to say these should do the trick!

The standard 6mm rear belt has not proven particularly problematic so no Bando alternative is offered. A standard 4mm replacement is however available for those keen to ensure as little drag as possible.

They certainly look to be tough as old boots, perhaps a slight sacrifice in flexibility is a small price to pay to guarantee a finish.

Some guys have been sealing the edges of the standard belts with cyno, this is what I have done with the rear belt with no noticable sacrifce in flexibility and maybe a little extra durability.

I will install these in my SX3 over the next couple of weeks and report back.

Oh Schumacher! You are spoiling us.

Details and prices of the new belts can be found here.

Lady Luck's done a runner!

2011-11-02T21:46:00.000Z

Well readers my luck has deserted me.

Over the last few weeks I've had the kind of run that makes an RC racer wonder why.

Why do I get up at 6.00am on a Sunday?

Why do I drive 50 or 60 miles to stand in a cold wet car park in the middle of nowhere?

Why do I spend hundreds, nay thousands, of pounds in the vigorous pursuit of fractions of a second?

Why do I participate in a hobby after which I return home happy only around 50 per cent of the time?

Because I, like you, am addicted.

Addicted to what?

Those days when I beat my personal best.

Those days when I nail the 'A'.

Those days when I return home triumphant with a 2 bob trophy that's cost me a hundred quid to win.

Those days when the postman brings me an RC package.

And those balmy summer days chillin' with my buds.

That's why I put up with weekends like the last 3!

Week 1: 10 minutes use with the brand new SX3, the rear belt self desructed and destroyed the rear diff pulley.

Super!

Credit to Schumacher who were excellent, the car is now sporting a new set of belts including the new uprated 'Bando' belts for the front and centre, all free of charge.

Thanks guys.

Read more . . . (Click here)

Durango DEX410R . . . I sploshed some paint on!

2011-10-27T11:01:00.002+01:00

Having managed to squeeze everything under the diminutive shell supplied with the 410 it was time to spill some paint all over it.

I decided to go for the 'team' look and try to create something similar to my Losi 22.

These are the results.

Read more . . . (Click here)

Durango DEX410R . . Electrics install.

2011-10-24T22:18:00.000+01:00

I put my limited soldering skills to the test at the weekend when I decided to wire up the 410.

My electrics of choice comprised a Tekin 6.5t motor hooked up to an LRP Sphere competition speedo. When I say choice what I mean is 'that I managed to source used for a reasonable price'.

Due to the limited space I had to spring for a Spektrum micro rx.

The juice to power this little lot will be supplied by a pair of Intellect 5400mah 60c saddles that are a perfect fit.

It's a bit of a challenge getting everything just so in this car but I think I managed pretty well.

I went for the de rigeur all black wiring, perhaps not the wisest but possibly the coolest choice.

The respective lengths of the positive and negative wires ensure that once in place it is, thankfully, impossible to connect the cells back to front.

I am happy with the outcome.

I have the heatsink for the speedo and am waiting for a thermal pad to arrive so I can fit it. I am hoping to get away without a fan if I can.

The final job will be to splash some paint on the bodyshell. I'll get the airbrush out tomorrow, pop back to see the result of my efforts.

I'm getting excited now!

GM90 . . . Smooth as a baby's bum!

2011-10-22T09:15:00.000+01:00

A couple of weeks back I picked up a used GM90 speedo. I have seen lots of guys going very fast with these and become convinced that I would be just as fast if I got one.

Of course I wont but my delusional attitude is what keeps RC companies in business!

I squeezed it into the Mi4, I really should invest in a micro rx to replace the housebrick that currently resides therein. The GM has quite a footprint, slightly smaller than a HW but still more navvy than tekin sized ballet dancer.

Read more . . . (Click here)

Losi Luvvin . . . TLR22 hits the track.

2011-10-17T14:58:00.000+01:00

I have now had a chance to run my Losi 22.

Twice on carpet at SHRCCC and one afternoon of testing on the high traction astro at TORCH.

Before this I had never raced a 2wd buggy and my entire 2wd experience amounted to about 3 laps on a grass circuit with a Mad Rat. These observations are therefore very much those of a 2wd novice.

Read more . . . (Click here)

Carlos Fandango Durango DEX410R . . Nearly ready to roll.

2011-10-12T22:35:00.001+01:00

I have, at last, made time to wield the wrenches in the direction of my Durango DEX410. I picked this up recently at a good price and have been looking forward to putting it together.

Team Durango have just released the V3 version of this car which, I am pleased to report, seems to be an evolution of this platform rather than an entirely new model.

The car remains ostensibly the same with the addition of big bore shocks and a new hex fitting for the wheels, thus confirming my purchase as a wise one.

Inside everything is as one would expect, mostly divided up into numbered bags that correspond with the build stages in the manual. The exception, and slight pain in the a*** is that the plastics are all in one big bag still attached to their sprues. I laid them out on the bench to make locating the correct part easier.

Read more . . . (Click here)

SHRCCC hits the carpet.

2011-10-11T20:43:00.000+01:00

Thursday night is now carpet racing night at SHRCCC.

Located in the Swiftsure hall on the same site as the outdoor track this brand new indoor venue aims to continue its popular weekly meetings regardless of the weather.

To this end Dudders has procured carpet from, the alas now defunct, RC Arena.

Read more . . . (Click here)

Schumacher Mi4 Gear Diff by SpecR

2011-10-04T21:40:00.000+01:00

Gear diffs have been very popular this season and SpecR have been capitalising on this by releasing versions for most popular touring cars. Until now Mi4 owners have felt a little neglected, but not any longer.

Schumacher, in collaboration with SpecR have finally released a version to fit the Mi4 range.

Read more . . . (Click here)

Sweep EX30P-PP Tyres

2011-10-03T23:02:00.000+01:00

I blew the dust off the Mi4 at the weekend and headed to Adur Model Car Club for Round 8 of their summer series.

It's been a little while since I have run the touring car so needed some fresh rubber.
RC Direct were the trackside retailers and recommended these Sweep EXP30-PP tyres.

They were cheaper than the ubiquitous Sorex 32, and I like to save a quid where I can, so I decided to give them a go.

Read more . . . (Click here)

TORCH Summer Series Finale

2011-09-27T20:54:00.000+01:00

As the summer season winds down I made the now familiar journey to TORCH for the final round of their popular summer series.

This series has been consistently well attended all year and Sunday was no exception, 72 drivers booked in for what promised to be a good days racing under a late summer sun.

There were some nice trophies to fight over for 1st 2nd & 3rd in the A, B & C finals.
Bring it on!

Read more . . . (Click here)

Losi TLR22 2wd Buggy . . . The Build (Part 3)

2011-09-24T18:48:00.000+01:00

Now the, not so straightforward, job of wiring it all up.

There are plenty of options for the layout of the electrics.

Losi sell a 'stubby' sized lipo specifically for this chassis that allows a bit more room. There is no way I am buying a battery that will fit only this car so I needed to work out the best way to do this with my saddles, not so easy with an enormous HW speedo and standard sized Sektrum rx.

As the saying goes; 'where there's a will there's a way'!

I like the HW speedos but the size doesn't help when space is at a premium. It is the 60a version and will be running the '119 stock' (with boost) software to spin up an 8.5 turn 'Bullistorm' motor.

This is what I ended up with, I think it's best described as functional rather than pretty but I will probably tweak it over time.

Read more . . . (Click here)

Losi TLR22 2wd Buggy . . . The Build (Part 2)

2011-09-21T22:10:00.000+01:00

Suitably refreshed I ventured back into the shed to crack on with the build.

Next on the list was the gearbox assembly.
This is significantly different for the mid and rear mounted motor variants.
Alot of racers are using ceramics in the diff, I decided to build it to kit spec and see how it holds up.
I gently sanded the diff rings with some wet and dry then assembled using the included silicone grease. The end result is silky smooth, at least on the bench, we'll see how it lasts in the heat of battle!

Tip: Don't forget to run your diff in before using in anger, run gently then readjust, it's easy to damage a diff with excessive slip when new.

Assembly is straightforward enough, all the gears run on beefy shafts with what appear to be decent bearings.

Tip: I used a precautionary dab of threadlock on the long bolts that secure the alloy motor plate.

Read more . . . (Click here)

Losi TLR22 2wd Buggy . . . The Build (Part 1)

2011-09-20T12:13:00.000+01:00

I have (rashly) entered the 2wd offroad carpet wars at Maritime so thought I had better build, and start practising with, my Losi TLR22.

The last couple of kits I've built have been Schumachers. They have both been good, high quality, builds so the 22, my very first Losi, has a tough act to follow, let's see how it stacks up.

When I hand over a big wodge of cash for a toy car I like to feel like I am getting some value, decent packaging goes some way towards this. The Losi doesn't disappoint, coming in a nice sleeved box.

Upon opening one is greeted by the familiar sight of a pile of numbered bags. They are easily identified by the numbered headers. A nice surprise is the two sets of wheels that are included, an indoor and outdoor set perhaps?

Read more . . . (Click here)

Wet astro . . . Summer, when was that then?

2011-09-12T16:37:00.001+01:00

The weather man had, unconvincingly, predicted a nice day for Sunday.

It was indeed a nice morning so I packed up my gear, including my shiny new SX3 and set off for TORCH.

The only problem was that Saturday night hadn't been so good, in fact it had been chucking it down!

As a consequence the track at TORCH was a little soggy.

Oh well, I guess I've got to learn it all so I paid my money and got myself prepared.

Some of the earlier arrivals got busy with some industrial sized squeegies in an effort to clear the surface of standing water. This was a bit of a thankless task given the that the track sits in a bit of a dip.

A good effort nonetheless, well done chaps.

Read more . . . (Click here)

Indoor buggy racing at Taplow

2011-09-06T13:39:00.001+01:00

The indoor buggy track at Taplow was my destination of choice this week.

This was one place the awful weather couldn't spoil my racing.

Taplow is a well known venue in buggy circles and is highly thought of by some top drivers who make occasional appearances here.

The track is run by Janos who spends most of Friday afternoon clearing his employers body shop and putting together a testing track. The track changes each week but is mostly carpet, liberally punctuated with testing features including jumps and yumps of varying sizes. The restricted space guarantees a fairly tight technical track that tests driver ability and car durability.

Read more . . . (Click here)

Schumacher Cat SX3 . . . The Build (Part 2)

2011-09-01T22:45:00.001+01:00

So onto the suspension.

Most of these parts come straight from the SX2, thats a good thing. The drive shafts look like they are from a Scania truck, well up to the rigours of off road racing and no pesky drive pins and grub screws to keep on top of.

Read more . . . (Click here)

Schumacher Cat SX3 . . . The Build (Part 1)

2011-08-31T21:49:00.005+01:00

(Click on any pic for a full size version.)

Ok then, time to get out the tools and get to work on my new Cat SX3.

I was looking forward to this build. It isn't very long since I built my SX2 and that was a really nice kit so I was keen to see how the SX3 compared.

Upon opening the box I was greeted by a familiar sight. All the parts are well packaged in clearly marked bags. The clear and well written manual gives specific instructions as to which of these bags are needed and when.

Simple as peas!

Read more . . . (Click here)

TORCH Summer Series - Round 5

2011-08-24T00:19:00.007+01:00

I had a trip to TORCH at the weekend to compete in round 5 of their summer series.

This is a well run, competitive, series that continues to gain popularity and this weekend attracted 60 drivers across 8 heats. Part of the reason for this popularity must be due to the fact that for a £10 entry fee every driver gets around half an hour of open practice followed by 4 qualifiers and 3 finals . . . Now that's value!

Dudders and the RC Lazy crew

Read more . . . (Click here)

I couldn't resist it! (Part 3) . . . Losi TLR22

2011-08-19T17:25:00.000+01:00

Ok ok . . . I know I didn't need it and I admit I am being profligate but as the title says, I couldn't resist it!

I promise that I will now stop buying and start building.

There is something of a buzz surrounding the TLR22 just at the moment.

It seems to be the marmite of the rc world, you either love it or you hate it!

I had to find out for myself. So rather than borrow somebody elses car, which worries me as I'm bound to break it, I bought one of my own.

Read more . . . (Click here)

I couldn't resist it! (Part 2) . . . Durango DEX410R

2011-08-13T18:44:00.000+01:00

Do you remember what I said about a good day at the track prompting exravagance?
Well I had better start having some bad days soon or I am going to be completely boracic!
(I didn't really mean that oh great gods of RC)

Anyway I blame Michael Ball at MB Models.

Michael has struck a deal with Durango meaning that right now he is doing a cracking price on the 410R.

Read more . . . (Click here)

Shootout Showdown at SHRCCC

2011-08-10T21:52:00.010+01:00

On Tuesday, after a hard fought summer of qualifying, the top 10 protagonists in 2 & 4wd faced off at SHRCCC to duke it out for a share of the generous £380 prize fund up for grabs at the Shootout finale.

As I have previously mentioned the track has become testing to say the least, whoever made off with the spoils would be deserving recipients. Yours truly had managed to qualify 3rd in 4wd drive behind James Rumble and Rob Elmes, both of whom have shown consistently good form here with Rob unbeaten since taking delivery of his SX3.

This is what we were after.

Read more . . . (Click here)

I couldn't resist it! . . . Schumacher Cat SX3

2011-08-09T12:06:00.003+01:00

It's amazing what a good day at the track can make you do.

I spent Sunday at TORCH competing in one of their club meetings. It's a track I really enjoy. So much so I am pleased to call myself their newest member.

I ended up being really happy with my day. I achieved 2 of my personal targets on one day. I cracked the 11 lap barrier and bagged myseld a 28 sec lap.

Yay for me!

Regular readers will know that it is only couple of months since I bought a brand new Schumacher SX2. Well I didn't let that stop me celebrating my day and went ahead and rewarded myself with a brand new SX3.

This is the latest buggy from Schumacher and is claimed to be awesome. In fact I fully expect it to make me the next world champion. (Maybe!)

Read more . . . (Click here)

Recognise anything?

2011-08-04T12:51:00.003+01:00

This is something I stumbled across.

Some of you may see something of yourselves, if you don't, show your other half . . . I bet they do!

SHRCCC Where did the grass go? .. Let them eat cake!

2011-08-04T12:12:00.004+01:00

I made the trip to SHRCCC on Tuesday this week.

It was another good turn out with about 30 drivers ready to battle it out for one of the nice shiny trophies that Dudders distributes at the end of the evening.

With the ever shorter summer evenings it is also a race against the fading light. Efficient race direction ensures everyone still gets 3 rounds of qualifying and a final. Even so, I would suggest a nice bright shell and carrots for supper if racing in the last final of the night.

Most of the attendees had a good time leaving for home with smiles on faces.

I enjoyed myself and had a good battle with Rob Elmes and James Rumble in 4wd, frustratingly losing out in the end and heading home with the smallest of the 3 pots. . . Bugger!

Read more . . . (Click here)

1/8th scale European Championship Result

2011-07-30T18:54:00.002+01:00

This is the preliminary result for the 8th scale European Championship held today in Luxembourg.

They are, at the time of writing, unconfirmed.

It was shaping up to be a great race between Collari, Balestri, Pietsch and Van Gastel until Balestri and Piestch ran into problems around 30 mins in to the race.

This meant that the different pitting strategies didn't get to play out and allowed Collari to keep Van Gastel under control to the flag.

A well deserved and, some would say, overdue victory for Collari.

Nr Vehicle Pilot Country Laps Lap time Absolute time Best time Med time

1 5 Collari Lamberto IT 160 17.088 45:03.506 15.918 16.896

2 3 Van Gastel Ilia BE 160 16.527 45:09.772 16.057 16.936

3 9 Vrielijnck Rick NL 158 18.704 45:08.537 16.075 17.142

4 2 Romagnoli Michele IT 157 17.967 45:04.670 16.121 17.227

5 10 Mack Oliver DE 154 18.111 45:06.197 16.211 17.572

6 8 D'Hondt Robin BE 121 20.842 34:32.967 16.283 17.131

7 4 Pietsch Robert DE 115 1:07.172 33:22.570 16.099 17.413

8 7 Dankel Eric DE 111 16.303 36:17.410 16.097 19.616

9 1 Balestri Dario IT 110 17.465 32:21.665 16.123 17.651

10 6 Kurzbuch Simon CH 96 17.318 31:36.651 16.213 19.756

Kyle Branson and Mark Green were highest placed Brits both running into trouble early and failing to finish their respective finals.

Durango DEX210 2wd Buggy

2011-07-30T10:03:00.004+01:00

I notice that Durango have just released their new 2wd buggy.

The following pics are from their website, more can be found at . . .

Team Durango DEX210 pics

Read more . . . (Click here)

We all love a new bodyshell ... Team Titan Blitz ISF

2011-07-27T23:02:00.010+01:00

Team Titan have got some great BRCA approved shells including the ISF, ALTIS, S5 and G35.

They claim various handling characteristics for the various designs.

I have splashed the cash and got myself an ISF and an S5 to try.

I picked them up from RC Direct for £16.99 each, which I thought was pretty good.

I have painted up the ISF and plan to give it a run on Sunday.

Read more . . . (Click here)

BRCA 8th scale National Round 5 Adur MCC

2011-07-19T12:47:00.002+01:00

The great and the good of 1/8 scale gathered at AMCC on the sunny (yeah right!) south coast at the weekend for round 5 of the BRCA national champs.

Given the weather forecast it was unsurprising that the entry was a little down but, with one notable exception, all the top guys were there. There was no reason to expect anything other than some top quality on track action.

Fast local men (l) Dan Ghibaldan and (r) Nick Gilbert

Read more . . . (Click here)

BRCA 1/8 Circuit National at AMCC Image Gallery

2011-07-18T14:49:00.018+01:00

It was a changeable and testing weekend for the F1 of RC racing.
Take a look at the pics if you don't believe me!

Slideshow not loading?
'You Tube' version can be viewed here:
Adur 1/8 National Image Gallery

Well done boys.
Report to follow.

BRCA 1/8 Circuit National at Adur MCC

2011-07-17T21:06:00.001+01:00

I paid a visit to Adur MCC this weekend where they were hosting Rnd 5 of the 1/8 circuit National series.

I took a few good pics and will be posting a write up in the next few days.

My latest hop up.

2011-07-14T18:36:00.000+01:00

Check this out.

It's an optimized beverage containment and dispensing device.

No, hang on, I came over a little bit xray for a moment there.

It's my new Schumacher tea mug.

Perfect for dunking custard creams when I'm banished to my man cave.

Spot on.

Thanks chaps.

TORCH - Buggy racing on Astro.

2011-07-14T15:10:00.002+01:00

Ok it's official, I am now hooked on 1/10 electric buggies.

In order to satisfy this fetish I am busy visiting local tracks.

Over the last few weeks I have made several trips to TORCH, a club run by ex IC circuit racer Steve Brown.

Titchfield Off Road Club Hants is located in deepest Hampshire between, and a little North of, Portsmouth and Southampton. It's a nice country location set in the corner a farm, a pleasant place to enjoy a days racing.

The surface is astro which means there is bags of grip and as a bonus the buggy stays nice and clean (ish!).

Read more . . . (Click here)

SHRCCC ... 'Old Skool' buggy racing!

2011-07-08T20:33:00.004+01:00

In a previous post I wrote about a 1/10 off road club in Surrey, SHRCC, the baby of the venerable Neil 'Dudders' Dudman.

I'm new to 1/10 buggies and am told that running on grass is considered 'old skool' these days as, for various reasons, most clubs opt for a more maintenance friendly astro surface.

Nevertheless it appears to have been a great idea. Neil has been running a number of successful events including the Fastrax GP, a summer 'Shootout' series and regular club events on Tuesday evenings and Sunday mornings.

I've been turning up for some of these events with my new Cat SX2 to see what 'old skool' buggy racing is all about.

The Fastrax GP is probably the biggest event held thus far at SHRCC. The meeting was sponsored by CML and all entrants recieved a set of control tyres for the bargain entry fee of £12.

A good turnout for the Fastrax GP

Read more . . . (Click here)

Schumacher SX2 'Body Off' Pics

2011-07-03T22:16:00.002+01:00

Hey there RC dudes and dudettes.

I went racing with my SX2 today at TORCH. I really enjoyed the day and will write a report later in the week.

In the meantime I promised to post a few 'body off' pics, so here they are!

Click on any pic for full size version.

Read more . . . (Click here)

My new baby ... Schumacher SX2 S1 Buggy

2011-07-01T23:07:00.002+01:00

Hey all. I have not posted for couple of weeks as I have been moving home. It's all done now, thank goodness, so I can get back to embarrasing myself via this blog.

All of a sudden this 1/10 off road lark seems to be all the rage.

Now I'm not one to get left behind, well maybe I am on the track but it's not for a lack of equipment!

So I smashed the piggy bank, counted up all my pennies and guess what? I had enough to buy myself a Schumacher SX2 S1.

This model has now been superseded by the SX3 but it seems the main change is in the chassis layout (now utilising a mid mounted motor) whilst retaining front and rear bulkheads and the parts mounted thereon.

Because of this I managed to get what I felt was an irresistible deal.

Read more . . . (Click here)

BRCA Electric Nats . . . West London

2011-05-25T12:34:00.003+01:00

Well my not so illustrious RC career continued last weekend with a vist to West London for the 1st round of the BRCA touring car nationals.

I haven't been to an electric national before so wasn't sure what to expect. These meetings are where the top drivers in the UK test themselves against each other so I knew it would be a tough weekend.

Read more . . . (Click here)

BRCA 1/10 Touring Car Nats Rnd1 - West London

2011-05-16T10:01:00.023+01:00

Round 1 West London: 14/05/2011

Super Touring - A Final

Best 2 Rounds To Count

Tie Break: Best Points

Pos	Car	BRCA	Name	Points	R1	R2	R3
1	1	388	Chris Grainger	2	1	10	1
2	3	16959	Elliott Harper	3	2	1	10
3	2	14768	Olly Jefferies	5	3	2	3
4	4	8694	Andy Moore	6	4	5	2
5	9	1325	Alan Bickerstaff	9	7	3	6
6	6	9596	Chris Kerswell	9	8	4	5
7	5	7531	Matthew White	10	9	6	4
8	7	9748	Jonathan Aird	13	5	9	8
9	8	18196	Paul Pinkney	14	6	8	9
10	10	207	Russell Williams	14	10	7	7

Produced by RC-Timing 2010. www.RC-Timing.com

My new O'Donnell SS21 engine

2011-05-16T09:30:00.005+01:00

It's always great to get something new for our beloved cars.

As an IC driver it is a real thrill to open up a box to find a brand new engine nestling inside.

I recently had this pleasure when my new ODonnell SS21 engine arrived. I hmmd and ahhd for some time before I decided on this as my motor for the 2011 season but made the decision based on 3 things.

1. Good forum feedback, buttery smooth and easy to tune apparently.

2. It's something a little different, I'm not one to run with the crowd.

3. Good value, it cost about the same as an Alpha 850.

The large heat sink is an understated black.

Read more . . . (Click here)

RC SureStart Engine pre-heaters

2011-05-11T16:35:00.011+01:00

OK hands up who likes running in engines . . . ?

Yep, I thought not.

I too was like you until I discovered the RC SureStart.

I know it sounds like the opening line of cheesey advert for washing powder but it really is a genuine sentiment.

Read more . . . (Click here)

Lipos ... A cautionary tale.

2011-05-05T00:24:00.007+01:00

Touring cars have been using lipo battery packs for around 3 years now, mostly without incident.

In fact the BRCA electric board have published some basic principles governing the use of lipo packs. These principles have been incorporated into the regulations and can be seen here.

The US governing body for RC racing is ROAR who also have a conservative attitude towards the use of lipo batteries. The US rules govering the use of lipos are even stricter than those of the BRCA and go as far as excluding the use of warmers. The rules for lipo use under ROAR can be found here. (Rule 8.3.2.1)

These regulations have been rigorously enforced at most circuit events I have attended over the last couple of seasons. Most people understand why and are, for safety's sake, happy to oblige.

OK if you are still awake you are no doubt thinking . . . "What is he banging on about?"

I'm getting to it!

In the US 1/8 electric buggy racing is becoming increasingly popular and what happens over there eventually happens over here, albeit more expensively!

I have been attending a few 1/8 rally-x events over the last few months and electric buggies are definitely growing in popularity, which is great. I think it's a brilliant way to get people interested in the off road scene without the added complication of those noisy, smelly gas engines that I love so much.

Here's the thing. I don't think I have seen one electric buggy using a hard case lipo. 99% of the time this is no problem but as for the other 1% ?!

I don't know who this was but I'd guess it ruined his day.

(Get in touch if this is your car)

Read more . . . (Click here)

A trip to Slough RWMCC for the SRS Round 1

2011-05-02T23:31:00.007+01:00

A few weeks back I prepared myself for a trip to Slough RWMCC for a club meeting. On that occasion the weather was uncooperative so it didn't happen.

This weekend the weather was glorious, if a bit on the windy side, so there were no excuses. I was off to play with the big boys!

RMWCC were hosting the first round of this years SRS, a regional series giving club racers the opportunity to race at other clubs around southern England.

This was to be my first buggy race away from the Adur track, and at a fairly big event, so I knew it wouldn't be easy. Had I bitten off more than I could chew? Probably, but I had already told myself I was going along for the experience and to see what I could learn.

An awesome rostrum.

There was a full entry of 105 drivers so an early start was required to ensure a decent spot in the pits.

I arrived at the track at about 07:45, it was already busy but I had no trouble finding a spot to set up.

Read more . . . (Click here)

SHRCCC ... A new off road venue for Surrey & Hants.

2011-04-27T17:32:00.005+01:00

SHRCCC is a brand new off road venue in Badshot Lea, Surrey.

This project is the baby of Neil Dudman, an active off road racer who will be well known to some of you.

I met him for the first time at the track, he is nice chap who is full of enthusiasm for his new venture.

Although I know very little about this particular discipline he looks to have all the ingredients to produce a decent venue.

Read more . . . (Click here)

ESC ... Woe is me!

2011-04-26T11:37:00.007+01:00

I have decided to write a little bit about the venerable, and all of a sudden ubiquitous, speedo from Hobbywing, the original manufacturers of Speed Passion. There are various versions available including the 60a, 120a, extreme stock and 1s.

I have been runnning the 120a version since last summer. My buying decision was based primarily on cost as it looked like great value, this has certainly proven to be true. The big bonus is that it actually turned out to be pleasingly competitive, so much so that I also purchased a 60a version which is now in my buggy.

Fan removed to fit under the bodyshell.

Read more . . . (Click here)

Ansmann Mad Rat .. An RC bargain!

2011-04-20T01:16:00.005+01:00

The 1/10 off road scene seems to be very popular right now.

There are one or two new tracks popping up within easy travelling distance of me so I thought I'd give it go.

Now being a cautious kind of a guy I didn't want to blow a bundle of green on something I'm not going to enjoy, this train of thought led me to Apex Models and the Ansmann Mad Rat.

Read more . . . (Click here)

A makeover for Adur off-road

2011-04-13T01:47:00.010+01:00

Adur MCC have recently completed a revamp of their popular off road track in West Sussex.

Some dedicated volunteers have clearly spent a great deal of time and expended much effort to create a completely new layout with some intimidating new features that will undoubtedly test the best and torment the rest!

They were holding the first round of the new summer series so I decided to make the trip and do my best not to embarass myself with my Hot Bodies D8.

Check out the bermed sweeper which is quickly followed by a testing kicker onto a raised section with a 180 degree hairpin.... Gulp!

(click on pics for full size)

Read more . . . (Click here)

Adur MCC: Winter championship decider.

2011-04-05T11:27:00.005+01:00

A dry day on the south coast ensured a decent turn out for the last round of the Adur winter series.
There were trophies at stake so people were soldering in their quick motors and charging up their no.1 batteries.
I had an outside chance of winning the superstock class but needed an unlikely set of circumstances to fall into place. A tall order with the quality of the field that had turned up to race. The more achievable goal for me was to confirm 2nd place.

Entrants included Jay Westwood, Timmay Langdell and Tim Hancock so today was going to be quick!

Chris Betts was in attendance and feeling confident.

Read more . . . (Click here)

A spring day at Aldershot MCC.

2011-03-28T14:38:00.048+01:00

This weekend I made the trip to Aldershot Model Car Club on the Surrey/Hampshire border.
Not such a big deal as it's only 2 miles from me!

Despite the damp start there was a good turn out of 40 - 50 drivers running superstock, prostock and modified. I ran in superstock which was the best supported, as seems to be the case at most clubs, with an entry of 27.

Most of you will know it well but for those that don't it's a great track with a lap time around 15sec.
There is plenty about it to test any level of driver including a tricky chicane that will punish inaccuracy and a scary high speed banked sweeper that rewards bravery.

I have decided to commit myself to my Mi4 and was determined to get it working.

Read more . . . (Click here)

Oh dear ... I dun broke it!

2011-03-22T10:35:00.008Z

Hello people.

I am afraid to say that I am once again seeking your commiserations rather than your congratulations.

This is what my Xray 009 looked like after heat 3 at the Adur circuit this past weekend.

They have, in their wisdom, installed some very solid and unforgiving concrete beams on the straight.

I decided to pay one of them visit and this was the resultant carnage!

It looks worse that it is however and although it effectively ended my meeting, and my tilt at the club winter championship, it is now fully repaired and ready to hit the tarmac again.

After the accident I did at least get the chance to run the new Mi4, as seen in my last post.

This didn't prove to be a big success however and I couldn't get close to the pace of my Xray.

It suffered with 2 problems.

The rear diff far was too loose, thanks to my great build, and I really struggled to get off the corners quickly. A rebuild and a tighten up for now then hopefully just a short wait until SpecR release the new gear diff.
Off power the car was really loose in the rear (ooh err!). I hope some attention to shock oils and and rear droop will help with this.

So it's back to the drawing board.
Any advice from you good guys most welcome at this point!

It was all worth it though to see Chris B suffering the after effects of a Jager bomb (or 3) and looking like he had slept in a hedge. There isn't enough coffee to put that right.
Top work fella!

Schumacher Mi4LP

2011-03-16T14:35:00.001Z

I know the Mi4CX is available now but I recently spotted this Mi4LP at a decent price and couldn't resist. I've seen a lot of guys going really fast with this chassis and I wanted to know what all the fuss was about. Now the fast guys are fast because they are good and will be fast whatever they drive, the question is will it make me any faster?

Well you never know I remain ever the optimist!

I bought the chassis from a guy on Oople, he was a decent fellow and on arrival it was, as promised, in mint condition, albeit with a rather pink shell.

I set about equipping it with some electrics and have ended up with a Hobbywing speedo and a Team Powers 13.5t motor. I run the Hobbywing speedo in my Xray 009 and think it's great value for money. It's also pretty quick with the correct software installed.

For the steering I settled on the Savox 1251, hoping it will be tough enough to survive my ham-fisted stick twiddling without a fitted servo saver.

After a once over and a little remedial wrenching I took it out for a spin on the Aldershot track. I am a member there so took advantage of a sunny Tuesday to give it a run. One pack down and my first impressions are good, I really enjoyed the way it drove, quick and responsive. Maybe a little too responsive for me but I am sure I can dial that out with a few minor changes.

So is it going to turn me into Chris Grainger overnight? No!

Am I going to enjoy driving it? Yes!

I will take it to Adur on Sunday where they are having a circuit meeting and see how I get on. I am not sure if it will oust my trusty Xray just yet but time will tell.

Repeat after me... "Change is good"

My new buggy hauler.

2011-03-14T12:16:00.003Z

I bought myself a present this week.

It's a HARD Racing Magellan buggy bag, HARD Racing are a Team Magic company so it's the same quality as the ubiquitous TM hauler bags.

It's made of a cordura type material which appears to be hard wearing and it's a big boy.

Inside there is a large carboard box into which you put whatever you want to transport. I lined the box with some vinyl just to make it easier to keep clean.

It will fit a 1/8 buggy with the wheels on.

It comes with various handles and a shoulder strap so it's easy to carry.

There is a neat little zipped compartment at one end which will accomodate 3 sets of buggy wheels and tyres or perhaps a transmitter. Better still an enormous packed lunch!

It's a nice thing that satisfies my bag fetish for a while and will protect the car from a filthy post race buggy.

Luvvin it!

Sunday morning in bed!

2011-03-14T11:45:00.000Z

The buggy was set up, the batteries were charged, the hauler was packed, the alarm was set and I was excited.

My first trip to the renowned Slough track, host of the 2003 european champs and playground of the 'fast guys' ... Gulp!

So much for planning. I awoke bleary eyed at the scheduled ungodly hour to be greeted by a pea souper of a mist and a steady drizzle, not a day for my Slough debut, I crawled back into bed and went back to sleep.

I'll wait for better weather, we must get some eventually .. right?

I took a look at the results later, it turns out that around 85 hardy souls braved the early conditions and turned up for what ended up looking like a decent days racing.

So it goes.

Debut outing for the new D8

2011-03-08T14:35:00.004Z

Things didnt quite go to plan for my first outing with the new buggy.

I set out for Adur off road club on a cold, but sunny, day full of expectation and anticipation. When I arrived I was greeted by a really good turn out of 30 to 40 buggy drivers. I guess a combination of some sunshine and a last opportunity to run on the track before some major refurbishment and a completely new layout tempted people to come out and blow away the winter cobwebs.

I am bound to be sooo much quicker with this great new car right? ... Wrong!

It didn't take any more than one heat for me to realise I had a difficult day ahead!

Heat 1: Feeling my way around with a newly run in engine, an inexpensive STS, only for it to cut out on me at around 3 minutes. Never mind, the car was not handling so well anyway so back to the pits to investigate.

Heat 2: I changed the rear roll bar and added a little camber to try and improve matters on the handling front with only limited success. Pointless anyway as I had the exact same engine problem in this heat.. Doh!

Heat 3: OK .. New glow plug and a change tyres for the last gasp effort. Car was much improved but still difficult to drive consistently. Nevertheless I was going much better and ran a full heat only to find my transponder had failed to register one of my laps ..... C final for me then.

C Final: Apart from a little trouble with back markers I had a fairly good, if unspectacular, run managing to take the win and bump into the B final.

B Final: I managed a decent start and was running fairly consistently near the front until around 15 minute mark. At this point I started to have some radio trouble, costing me valuable time, eventually coming home in a reasonable 4th place behind my buddy, and rival, James Rumble. (Thanks to Gary B for the sterling pit work.)

So what did I learn? ... Well, that I have a lot to learn!

OK then, time to pilfer a set up from a team driver, fit an RX booster and pack up the car for a trip to Slough this Sunday with renewed optimism.

Stay tuned.

Yeah baby lets go racing!

2011-03-03T23:54:00.005Z

This is my brand new Hot Bodies D8 buggy.

It will be getting its debut outing this weekend at Round 5 of the Adur winter series.

Adur is a great dirt track near the South coast, a test of man and machine as they say.

Lets see how the new car looks on Sunday evening!