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Home > FAQs > Nitro Issues > How to start a nitro car

How to start a nitro car

We would recommend ensuring that the glow starter is fully charged and checking the glow plug is glowing healthily, this can be done by removing it from the engine and testing it in the glow starter, it should glow bright orangey/yellow in colour.

Also check the carburettor position is correct by removing the air filter, for normal idle speed the carb should be open around 1 mm, however to help with starting we would suggest opening the carb to around 3 to 4 mm as it will allow slightly more air and fuel in which will assist with starting. This can be done using the throttle trim on the transmitter and once the engine starts after a few moments of running the trim can be adjusted again to reduce the idle speed.

Be aware when starting the engine with carb open like this the engine will rev higher therefore it is recommended this is done with the wheels in the air or the model against something to prevent it running off.

In the colder winter months engine starting can be helped by heating the engine up first with either a hair dryer or heat gun.

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How to start a nitro car