Digital Scales for RC Racing

Every RC racer knows that reducing the weight of an RC vehicle will result in both increased speeds and longer run times, but do you really know what part is lighter? Start weighing individual stock and aftermarket parts, and it might surprise you. If just getting started, purchase a digital scale that weights in ounces (oz). These types of scales are great for weighting complete kits. For smaller parts you will need a scale weighting down to grams (g), and these can be more expensive, but are well worth the cost.

Two common digital scales available online, or at most shipping supply stores. The scale on the right is for weighing heavier objects (oz), such as RC cars. The scale on the left is much finer in resolution (g), and can tell you what part is actually lighter.

A large weight savings is apparent between these two transmission top shafts. Left is manufactured from aluminum (4.4g), the right steel (13.3g).

Above, an Associated B6D, race ready, at 53.7 ounces, 1522 grams, or 3.35 pounds. In order to get an accurate reading, a small box was used as a stand to keep the tires from striking the ground. Scale was properly tared, or zeroed, with the box in place prior to the car being weighed. Useful information to compare to the rules prior to arriving at a race with a "skinny" illegal car.

Scale Terms

Ounces: Unit of weight, 16 ounces equal 1 pound.
Grams: Finer unit of weight, 1 gram equals 0.0352 ounce.
Zero: Resets scale to zero. If a scale shows a weight value with nothing on it, it needs to be tared to zero prior to weighing an object.
Tare: Subtracts an item you do not wish to weight, such as a car stand.
Stabilization: Finer scales can be impacted by air movements. Scale should only be read when stable indictor is displayed.