Running remote controlled boats is a lot of fun, and you have some options to think about before you decide which to purchase, an electric, or, gas powered rc boat. There are advantages and disadvantages of both.
One of the first things to consider is the location where you will be running you boat, because gas powered boats are not allowed in some places.
If you're looking at cost, you may want to consider getting an electric radio controlled boat instead of gas. A quality gas powered r/c boat could cost anywhere from $200-$250, or more, while you can get an exceptional radio controlled electric boat for around $30-$40.
Another advantage of an electric rc boat is that they are quieter. If you chose an electric boat, one tip to extend the life of the electric motor is to run a cooling coil on the motor to remove any excess heat. The cooling coil fits like a jacket around the outside of your motor. R/C electric boats are generally easier to maintain than gas powered boats. In addition, remote-controlled electric boats are available in smaller sizes than gas powered boats, making them ideal for smaller ponds.
If you decide on an electric boat; some tips to make your radio controlled electric boat to go faster is to increase the number of battery cells on your boat which will give you higher voltage. A bigger prop will also make your boat go faster, but you should take care, because if you choose a prop that is too big, you can burn up your motor. You should carefully match your prop size with a prop usage chart, if you do decide to change the prop.
There are generally two type of gas powered boats: 1. gasoline powered and 2. nitro powered (powered by nitromethane). Some gas powered boats use a standard two-stroke gasoline engine similar to those found in ‘weed-eater' garden tools. These engines are typically around 25cc, which provides quite a bit of power.
Gasoline powered RC boats are generally bigger, more powerful and more noisy, than electric boats, but that's what makes them fun. The size of your boat is guaranteed to turn heads at the local lake. The noise, smell and powerful wake thrown by your boat adds to the realism, and if there is any chop on the water at all, your gas powered boat will really hop.
Nitro powered r/c boats are generally even faster than gas powered boats, but there are quite a few gasoline models that are comparable. Some nitro boats can run up to 50mph, giving you quite a thrill. Your nitro powered r/c boat will throw out quite a rooster tail on the water, and generally these types of boats should be reserved for a more experienced rc boat hobbyist.
Whichever type of boat you choose, gas, electrically powered, or nitro, rc boating is fun and exhilarating, and a great way to enjoy your time on the water. In general, I'd recommend starting out with an electric boat, if you're a beginner. As you progress in rc boating, you'll naturally move to a gas powered boat, and then if you're really interested in speed, or even racing, you may choose to move to a wicked fast nitro rc boat.
