Upgrades – Steering & Linkages
The steering system on the RC18T (B/MT/R) was designed for one purpose; protect the steering servo from breaking. For racing purposes, we all know that it’s, well, not so good. We will go over a couple methods to tighten up the steering as well as the linkage that supports it.
Steering Fixes
There are a couple ways to tighten up the steering on the 18 Series vehicles.
A couple options are:
• Glue your servo saver together.
Works good ONLY if you have a metal gear servo…and even then I wouldn’t recommend this option.
• O-Rings around the servo saver.
Works good but requires you to shim the servo up slightly. Apply a strip of servo tape under the servo to take up the gap (See Tighten the Servo Saver 1)
• Metal clamp around the servo saver.
Works good also, but you have to be careful which clamp you get. The wrong one will create MORE slop!
• Spring coil around the servo saver.
Works better but requires a little grinding and a spare shock spring (See Tighten the Servo Saver 2).
• Aluminum servo saver parts.
Looks good and tightens up the steering. Downside is the added weight. Be sure not to overtighten or you’ll bind the aluminum parts.
Linkages
The linkages on the 18 Series come as static links; that is, the are non-adjustable. There are several companies that make aftermarket adjustable linkages, including Team Associated: Titanium Turnbuckles (part #21055 B/T/MT, 21056 R).
Another part that is sometimes overlooked is the steering crossbar link. There are multiple fixes for this, also, that help tighten up the steering.
• Homemade custom piece.
Simple and costs next to nothing! (See No/Less Steering Slop)
• RC Madness Steering Brace.
I use these on ALL my 18th scale vehicles (where applicable). Aluminum cross link with brass inserts. Simple and effective.
• Driven Productions Drag Link.
This is becoming a more and more popular choice of 1/18th scale racers!
Back to the 1/18th Scale Support Page
