RC radio glitching? Fix the antenna and receiver first
If the car twitches or briefly stops responding, the radio link is being interrupted. Get the antenna tip vertical and clear of carbon, move the receiver away from motor and ESC wires, and re-bind.
Why it happens
2.4 GHz signals are blocked by carbon fibre and disturbed by the electrical noise from motor and ESC wiring. A damaged antenna or a receiver tucked next to power wires makes dropouts likely.
Check in this order
- Antenna tip. Vertical, in an antenna tube, clear of carbon. Carbon blocks 2.4 GHz.
- Receiver placement. Away from the motor and the ESC's power wires.
- Antenna wire. Check for a chafed or broken wire, especially at the receiver end.
- Throttle-related glitches. A capacitor across the motor terminals cuts electrical noise.
- Re-bind. Re-bind the receiver and check the failsafe is set.
Parts that fix it
- Receivers: Receivers
- Antenna tubes and parts: Transmitter Accessories
- Capacitors: Capacitor
- Wire: Wire & Heatshrink
FAQ
Does carbon fibre affect RC radio signal? Yes. Carbon blocks 2.4 GHz, so keep the antenna tip above and clear of any carbon chassis or deck.
Where should I mount my RC receiver? As far from the motor and ESC power wires as the chassis allows, with the antenna running straight up.
Why does my RC car glitch only on throttle? Electrical noise from the motor. A capacitor across the motor terminals and better wire routing usually fix it.