range of 27 MHz versus 49 MHz

gRC · #1 09-29-2002, 11:27 PM

I have two ZipZaps. One is 27 MHz, and the other is 49 MHz. The range on the 27 MHz is 6 feet, and the range on the 49 MHz is 20 feet.

Is it normal for there to be such a huge difference in range?

I tried changing the batteries in the controllers, but it did not matter. I also tried removing the bodies and fully extending the antennas. The 27 MHz range increased by just 1 foot, and the 49 MHz range increased by 5 feet.

Any thoughts?

Namuna · #2 09-30-2002, 12:10 AM

When I bought my Yellow Mustang ZZ (49MHz) I was lucky if I got 5-6 feet. So I had the opposite issue as you.

One of the very first mods I did was to put a new antenna on it. I used a solid core, 24guage wire (bought from Radio Shack). Now my range is in the 15-20ft range.

If you're handy with a soldering iron...I HIGHLY recommend replacing the antenna on the car.

JediYoda56 · #3 09-30-2002, 12:14 AM

Namuna: I see alot of mods seems to involve a soldering iron. How woul done go about buying and learning how to use a soldering iron? Thanks

MTL · #4 09-30-2002, 12:40 AM

heh im not sure how far mine went, i ran out of batteries

i expected it to use AA batteries..then when i open it up im like dammit...so i had to use some old ones hahah
well i think it went about 15 feet....
i tried to see if i could lengthen it by unwinding the wire, but there was none left inside ;/
ahh wells

ALSO!!! i saw some guy return his ZZ because he said it wouldnt go far..i laughed....

headhunter555 · #5 09-30-2002, 12:46 AM

Yeah my 27 doesnt have much range either! maybe 7 feet MAX!

gRC · #6 09-30-2002, 01:40 AM

I fixed it!!!

I opened up the circuit board compartment and moved one of the fine copper wires. These wires are bare and as thin as hair. One wire seemed to travel too close to the circuit board, perhaps touching part of it that it should not. So I carefully moved it away from the circuit board by pushing it with a tiny screwdriver.

Now both the 27 MHz and 49 MHz have a range up to 25 feet.

YMMV.

payaso · #7 09-30-2002, 03:34 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by JediYoda56
Namuna: I see alot of mods seems to involve a soldering iron. How woul done go about buying and learning how to use a soldering iron? Thanks

I know this is for Namuna, but he's not here and I am, so go to your local radio shack and buy a soldering iron and a do it yourself radio or something and practice with that. When you feel confident enough to do it to your bit, go for it

silla

Namuna · #8 09-30-2002, 11:21 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by JediYoda56
Namuna: I see alot of mods seems to involve a soldering iron. How woul done go about buying and learning how to use a soldering iron? Thanks

To add-on to what Payaso said...

Look for a 20 to 30watt soldering iron, with the 'sharpest' tip you can find (like sharpened #2 pencil sharp!)...As a matter of fact, they're usually called Soldering Pencils.
Here's a decent one from Radio Shack: HERE

Along with that you'll...Bah, I'm adding this to the FAQ