How to Build Your Own RC Monster Truck

Look through your RC monster truck kit. Make sure everything that is supposed to be in the kit--body, chassis, motor, receiver and transmitter. If your kit is missing parts, enlist the help of your local hobby shop to point you to the right parts for your kit.

Separate out all the small screws and nuts into little bowls or containers for later retrieval. Assemble the kit, taking time to identify the correct screws and parts needed for each step. Be sure to tighten all screws into place but avoid over tightening and stripping the threads. Rub a little bit of soap along the threads before screwing in to place. This will help prevent stripping threads when working on a stubborn screw.

Apply grease to all the internal gears and moving parts of the RC monster truck. This can be messy, so take care in not applying too much to avoid gunky gears. You can also use WD-40. The oil-based liquid lubricant is light and thin, so you will not lose performance and won't have to worry about gunky gears and mess.

Attach all metal components tightly. Apply a little liquid thread lock on the threads and nuts to ensure a tight hold. Screws can loosen over time from vibrations during operation. Loose screws can cause the chassis and parts to move and vibrate, resulting in damage or lowered performance.

Take your time when measuring out parts to cut, like the shocks or tire rods. Parts like this need to be accurate in length and size. Use a ruler or calipers to measure twice, then cut.

Put together the receiver box as it states in the manual. Follow it closely and correctly. Once done, attach the receiver box to the inside of the RC monster truck. Look for a flat smooth spot away from the motor and moving parts. Protect the receiver from harsh jolts and prolong vibration by filling the receiver box with foam rubber. This insulation will help prevent radio glitching, which is common from vibration.

Wash all parts you plan on painting with warm soapy water, removing all the grease and dirt. This extra step will prevent peeling and chipping. Paint one color at a time, allowing it to dry before moving onto new colors. Use painter's tape for sharp lines and edges like racing lines or pen lines.

Assemble the final components to the RC monster truck, attaching the body to the chassis and spoilers to the body. Once completed, test the RC monster truck outdoors on a flat smooth surface to see how it handles on the road.