A MOMENT WITH MIKE: What's In A Pro Driver's Toolbox?

0 Feb. 4, 2020, 10:48 a.m.

Main Photo: A MOMENT WITH MIKE: What's In A Pro Driver's Toolbox?

By Mike Garrison
LiveRC.com

A Moment with Mike is a weekly opinion column where LiveRC’s Mike Garrison gives his take on hot-button issues, general topics, and conversations within the RC industry. The views and opinions expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of LiveRC.

In the world of R/C car racing, majority of the racers (beginner to pro) are also their own mechanic - with a few exceptions here and there. Have you ever wondered what a paid professional R/C racer carries in his toolbox to be fully prepared for any wrenching task at all times? I decided to find out.

After glancing through several of the top pros toolboxes, I decided to pick the driver with perhaps the heaviest and most overloaded toolbox of anyone in the pro paddock - Joe Bornhorst.

Like most pro drivers, Joe chooses the Plano Lockjaw Double Cover Utility Box (CLICK HERE to view on Amazon).

So what exactly does the two-time National Champion carry in his toolbox? Lets take a look...

PLEASE NOTE: Joe's toolbox has him prepared for everything just short of a zombie apocalypse, and not ALL of what is found in here is necessary to successfully build and maintain your R/C car.

TOP OF BOX:

Maxima blue grease in syringe
Protek RC O-ring grease in syringe
Glow plugs
Sharpies
Pen
Different size brushes
Hobby knives
Extra hobby knife blades
Multiple drill bits
MKS servo gear grease
Nitro engine pipe springs
Small zip ties
Protek RC tire bands (Joe uses these to wrap around his toolbox during travel so it doesn't come open)
Nitro engine carb restrictors in different sizes
Throttle return rubber bands
1/8-scale pinions
Miscellaneous stuff that even Joe can't explain what it is or where it came from...