Fitting new gear is one of the more satisfying jobs on any model, and it’s genuinely straightforward if you take it in order.

1. Remove the old gear completely, including any old thread-lock residue on the bolts, and inspect the fuselage mounting points for damage before fitting anything new — there’s no point bolting fresh gear to a cracked or soft mounting rail.

2. Dry-fit before you commit. Offer the new gear up to the mounting points without any fasteners tightened, and check the leg sits square to the fuselage centreline and that the wheel axles will clear any cowl, wheel pant, or fuselage side when the wheels are fitted.

3. Use the correct grade of fastener, torqued to a sensible value by feel rather than gorilla-tightened — carbon fibre mounting plates can crack under excessive clamping force just as easily as they can crack from flight loads. If in doubt, a drop of thread-lock on a moderately tight bolt beats an over-tightened one.

4. Check axle alignment with the gear bolted down — sight along both wheels from directly behind the model to make sure they’re parallel to each other and to the fuselage. Toe-in or toe-out, even slight, will cause the model to pull on take-off roll.

5. Fit wheels and pants last, and spin each wheel by hand to check for free rotation with no rubbing against pants or fuselage before your first flight.

6. Do a firm hand-push test on each gear leg, simulating a moderate landing load, before you ever trust it to a real one. If anything flexes further than you’d expect or you hear any cracking sound, stop and re-check the fit.

Take your time on step 3 in particular — most gear failures we hear about trace back to fasteners rather than the gear itself.

Take a look at our Carbon Fibre undercarriage for 50e and 50 size nitro Narrow Fit YAK50e 50e for a solid example of correctly sized gear.

Landing gear takes more repeated stress than almost any other part on the airframe, and yet it’s one of the most overlooked items on a pre-flight check. Here’s what to look for.

Hairline cracks or white stress marks. Carbon fibre doesn’t bend gracefully — instead, repeated stress shows up as fine white lines or surface cracking near the mounting points or the tightest curve of the leg. Any visible cracking means retirement, not repair.

A leg that no longer sits level. If one side of your gear sits noticeably lower or at a different angle than the other after a hard landing, even without visible damage, there may be internal fibre damage you can’t see. A gentle flex test (by hand, gear off the model) comparing both legs side by side is a good habit.

Loose or elongated mounting holes. Repeated vibration and shock loading can wear out the mounting holes over time, particularly on models that see a lot of grass strip use. Elongated or oval holes mean the gear is no longer being held rigidly, which accelerates wear elsewhere.

Wheel wobble that wasn’t there before. Sometimes it’s the axle or wheel collet rather than the gear itself, but a wobble that’s developed gradually is worth investigating properly rather than tightening and ignoring.

You genuinely can’t remember when you last replaced it. Carbon fibre landing gear doesn’t have a fixed service life in hours, but if a leg has seen several seasons of regular grass strip landings, it’s earned a proper inspection at minimum.

None of this needs to be expensive or complicated — a five-minute check before the season starts, and after any landing that felt harder than usual, catches almost everything above before it becomes a real problem.

For a real-world example, have a look at our Carbon Fiber Landing Gear For 26cc-35cc / 50cc / 80cc / 100cc / 150cc / 200cc Airplane Flight.

Retracts look fantastic in the air and add a real touch of scale realism, particularly on Yaks, Extras, and other full-scale aerobatic types that were built with retractable gear. But they’re not the right choice for every flyer, so it’s worth being honest about the trade-offs.

Fixed carbon fibre gear is simpler, lighter, cheaper, and has far fewer failure points — no servos, no sequencers, no mechanical linkages to maintain. For sport flying, training, and even a lot of competition aerobatics, fixed gear is genuinely the more practical choice, and plenty of full-scale aerobatic aircraft (including many Extras) fly perfectly well with fixed gear in real life too.

Retracts add weight, complexity, and cost, and they introduce a failure mode that fixed gear simply doesn’t have: a retract that won’t come down. For sport and club flying, that’s usually just an embarrassing (and expensive) belly landing. For a model you’ve spent serious money and time on, it’s a real consideration.

If scale accuracy is a priority for you — flying at a scale competition, or your particular subject was retract-equipped in real life — retracts are worth the extra complexity. If you’re mainly flying for fun, 3D, or general sport aerobatics, don’t feel you’re missing out by sticking with fixed carbon gear; most judges and spectators won’t mark you down for it, and your maintenance list will be considerably shorter.

Whichever route you take, gear leg dimensions and mounting patterns are broadly similar between fixed and retract setups on a given airframe size, so our sizing charts apply either way.

Our EXTRA 300 150CC Carbon Fibre undercarriage is a good reference point if you’re shopping around.

Both materials have a long history in RC undercarriages, and both still have their place — the right choice depends on what you fly and how you fly it.

Aluminium gear has been the traditional default for decades. It’s forgiving, relatively cheap to produce, and it fails predictably — a hard landing tends to bend it rather than snap it, which some flyers actually prefer because a bent leg is a visible warning sign, and often can be bent back into rough shape in a pinch.

Carbon fibre gear is lighter for a given stiffness, which matters most on 3D and aerobatic scale models where every gram affects the power-to-weight ratio and where a stiffer leg means less energy absorbed as unwanted flex during hard 3D landings and torque rolls. The trade-off is that carbon doesn’t bend and re-use the way aluminium does — under enough stress it will crack or delaminate rather than deform, so inspection after a heavy landing is more important.

Neither is objectively “better” — a sport pilot flying smooth grass strips off a 50cc Yak may never stress aluminium gear enough to notice the difference, while a competition 3D flyer landing hard and often will feel the benefit of carbon’s stiffness immediately.

If you’re upgrading rather than replacing like-for-like, it’s worth checking your model’s designed all-up weight against the gear’s rated range — going carbon on an overweight model won’t fix a fundamental mismatch between weight and leg stiffness.

You can browse our Carbon Undercarriage for 30 size nitro / electric sized RC models to see this in practice.

One of the most common questions we get is simply: “which size do I need?” It’s a fair question, because unlike a lot of RC parts, landing gear isn’t sold by a universal sizing standard — it’s matched to the airframe and, often, to the engine size the model was designed around.

The starting point is always your model’s manual or manufacturer spec sheet. Most kit and ARF manufacturers will state a recommended engine displacement (in cc for petrol/glow, or a motor/prop combo for electric), and gear is generally sized to match that bracket — for example 26cc-35cc, 50cc, 80cc, and so on up to 200cc+ for the larger scale aerobatic types.

If you no longer have the original documentation, the next best method is measuring your existing gear (or the mounting points on the fuselage if you’re starting from bare wood or foam) and comparing against the dimension charts on each product page — fuselage width, undercarriage widh and track are the three measurements that matter most. you will see on most of our undercarriages a diagram with A, B, C and D measurements. compare these with what you have, or had, and you can start working on a suitable replacement.

A word of caution: “close enough” isn’t good enough with landing gear. Too light a gauge for your model’s weight and you risk flex or fatigue cracking after repeated landings; too heavy and you’re carrying unnecessary weight for no benefit. If you’re between two sizes, it’s almost always worth sizing up rather than down, particularly if you fly from grass.

One thing to consider is putting in an undercarriage in two parts. by splitting it in half at the ‘A’ measurement, allows you to both widen or narrow an undercarriage that may be right in all other aspects but not fit across the fuselage. Good bolts and fixings help with split undercarriages and many large models come originally with split undercarriages.

If you’re ever unsure, get in touch with your model, engine size, and roughly all-up weight, and we’re happy to help you land on the right choice before you order.

Our Carbon Fibre Undercarriage for 100cc models – suits Yak and others. UK stock is a good illustration of the kind of fit and finish to look for.

RC Alloy Wheels in Pepperpot Design: The Upgrade Your RC Plane Deserves

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When it comes to finishing your RC aircraft build to a professional standard, the wheels are often the last thing pilots think about — but they shouldn’t be. The right set of wheels doesn’t just look the part on the flightline; they contribute to smooth ground handling, reliable takeoffs, and clean landings. That’s exactly where the RC Alloy Wheels in Pepperpot Design from Carbon RC Parts come in.

What Are Pepperpot RC Wheels?

The term “pepperpot” refers to the distinctive spoke-and-hole hub design that closely mirrors the style of pepperpot alloy wheels seen on performance cars. In the RC world, this design isn’t just aesthetic — the open hub structure reduces unnecessary weight while maintaining the structural integrity of the wheel. The result is a wheel that looks stunning, performs reliably, and won’t add unneeded mass to your model.

These wheels from Carbon RC Parts are machined from aluminium alloy, giving them that premium look and feel that immediately sets your aircraft apart from the crowd at the flying field.

Key Features at a Glance

Before we go deeper, here’s a quick rundown of what makes these wheels stand out:

• Sizes available: 1.75″ through to 6″ — suitable for everything from sport trainers to large-scale warbirds and petrol-powered giants
• Grooved rubber tyres for improved traction during takeoff and landing rolls
• Split hub design for easier tyre fitting and replacement
• Brass bushing on larger sizes for significantly improved wear resistance and longevity
• 5mm axle bore on most sizes (6mm on the 5″ and 6″ wheels)
• Sold as a pair — no hidden per-wheel pricing

That last point is worth highlighting: many retailers sell RC wheels individually and price them per wheel. Carbon RC Parts sells these as a pair, starting from just £22.00, making them exceptional value for a quality alloy wheel.

Size Guide: Finding the Right Fit

One of the biggest advantages of this range is the breadth of sizes on offer. Whether you’re fitting out a small electric foamy or a large petrol-powered scale model, there’s a pepperpot wheel to match.

As a general guide, most 60–90 size sport models will suit a 3″ to 3.5″ wheel, while larger petrol-powered planes — particularly those in the 20cc to 40cc range — will benefit from the 4″ to 5″ options. The 6″ wheel is ideal for large-scale warbirds or taildragger designs where ground clearance matters.

Why Alloy Wheels Are Worth the Investment

Many RC kits ship with basic plastic or foam wheels. While these work adequately, they tend to wear quickly, look unremarkable, and don’t always handle rougher grass strips particularly well. Upgrading to alloy wheels with rubber tyres offers several genuine performance and durability benefits:

Better Ground Handling: The rubber grooved tyres provide improved grip on both tarmac and grass surfaces. This translates to straighter takeoff runs and more predictable landing rollouts.

Durability: Alloy hubs resist cracking and deformation far better than plastic alternatives, especially on harder landings or when operating from rougher surfaces. The brass bushing on larger sizes further extends the service life of the axle bore.

Weight Efficiency: The pepperpot design removes material from the hub where it isn’t needed, keeping rotational mass low. Lower unsprung weight means your aircraft responds more naturally during ground operations.

Aesthetics: Let’s not overlook the visual element. These wheels genuinely look fantastic. The alloy hub paired with the grooved rubber tyre gives any model — warbird, aerobat, or sport plane — a polished, scale-accurate finish.

Pairing These Wheels With the Right Components

For the best possible result, Carbon RC Parts recommends pairing these wheels with their range of stub axles and carbon fibre undercarriages. The 5mm stub axle is a particularly popular match, providing a rigid, secure axle solution that complements the alloy wheel perfectly. A proper wheel collet will also ensure the wheel is locked securely in place with no lateral movement during operation.

If you’re building a complete undercarriage solution from scratch, Carbon RC Parts offers carbon fibre undercarriage legs for nitro, electric, and petrol-powered models — making it possible to specify a complete, matched landing gear setup from a single supplier.

Delivery and Availability

These wheels are shipped from Carbon RC Parts’ UK warehouse, with direct delivery typically taking around 10 days within the UK. International shipping is available, with a typical delivery window of 10–14 days worldwide. Stock levels can vary across sizes, so it’s worth ordering sooner rather than later if you have a build deadline in mind.

Final Thoughts: Are These the Right RC Plane Wheels for You?

If you’re serious about your RC flying and want a wheel that performs well, lasts, and looks the part, the alloy pepperpot wheels from Carbon RC Parts are a straightforward recommendation. The range of sizes makes them genuinely versatile across a huge variety of models, the construction quality is solid, and the pricing — particularly given that they’re sold as a pair — represents strong value against comparable products on the market.

Whether you’re rebuilding a battered set of landing gear, finishing a new kit build, or upgrading an existing model, these wheels are worth serious consideration.

👉 View the RC Alloy Wheels Pepperpot Design on Carbon RC Parts

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Carbon RC Parts supplies premium RC aircraft components including carbon fibre undercarriages, petrol engines, propellers, and accessories to hobbyists across the UK and worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Carbon RC Parts & Carbon Fiber Undercarriage FAQ

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General Questions

What is Carbon RC Parts?

Carbon RC Parts is a specialist supplier of premium carbon fiber undercarriages, gas/petrol engines, and high-quality RC accessories for radio control aircraft enthusiasts. We focus on delivering professional-grade components that enhance performance and durability for electric, nitro, and gas-powered RC planes.

Where are you located?

We are based in Beautiful South Cambridgeshire in the the United Kingdom and ship worldwide to RC enthusiasts around the globe.

Do you offer international shipping?

Yes! We ship to customers worldwide. Shipping costs and delivery times vary depending on your location. For detailed information, please visit our Delivery Information page.

How can I contact you?

You can reach us through our Contact Us page. We aim to respond to all enquiries within 24 hours during business days.

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Carbon Fiber Undercarriage Questions

Why should I choose carbon fiber undercarriage over aluminum or steel?

Carbon fiber undercarriages offer several key advantages:

• 10x stronger than aluminum (500,000+ psi tensile strength vs 40,000 psi)
• 60% lighter weight for better performance and extended flight times
• Superior flex and memory – bends under impact and returns to shape
• Corrosion-proof – no rust or oxidation in wet conditions
• Vibration damping – protects electronics and provides smoother operation
• Longer lifespan – outlasts metal alternatives by years

Are your carbon fiber undercarriages made from solid carbon fiber?

Yes! Our undercarriages are constructed from full carbon fiber, not fiberglass with a carbon skin. This provides superior strength-to-weight ratio and durability.

Do carbon fiber undercarriages come pre-drilled?

No, all our carbon fiber undercarriages are supplied undrilled to ensure perfect fitment for your specific aircraft model. This allows you to customize the mounting holes precisely to your plane’s requirements.

What if I can’t find the right size undercarriage for my model?

If you can’t find a standard size that fits your aircraft, simply contact us with your A, B, and C measurements (see measurement guide below), and we’ll recommend the best option or discuss custom sizing possibilities.

How do I measure for the correct undercarriage size?

To determine the correct undercarriage size, measure:

• A measurement: Distance between fuselage sides or mounting exit
• B measurement: Total width of the gear (tip to tip)
• C measurement: Height from mounting surface to axle center / bottom of the undercarriage

Send these measurements to us via our Contact page, and we’ll help you find the perfect fit.

What aircraft sizes do your carbon fiber undercarriages fit?

We stock undercarriages for:

• Electric models (40-60 size)
• Nitro models (50-90 size)
• Petrol/Gas models (20cc up to 150cc+)

From profile aerobatic planes to scale warbirds, we have options for various aircraft types and sizes.

Can carbon fiber undercarriage break on hard landings?

While carbon fiber is extremely strong, it can fail under extreme impact – just like any material. However, carbon fiber typically flexes and returns to shape where aluminum would permanently bend. With proper installation and normal use, carbon fiber undercarriages are far more durable than metal alternatives.

How do I maintain my carbon fiber undercarriage?

Carbon fiber requires minimal maintenance:

1. Wipe clean after each flying session with a soft cloth
2. Use mild soap and water for stubborn dirt
3. Inspect visually for cracks or white stress lines
4. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the resin
5. Apply UV protectant wax seasonally for extended life
6. If you wish to colour your undercarriage this is possible with a wipe of a good cleaner, and a light sanding to key the surface. Take good protective precautions with sanding or drilling carbon fibre.

Do you sell stub axles, wheels, and spats?

Yes! We carry:

• Stub axles for carbon fiber undercarriages
• Aluminum hub wheels (2.75″ to 5″ sizes)
• Plastic hub wheels for various applications
• Wheel spats and fairings to complete your scale appearance

What’s included with carbon fiber undercarriage purchases?

Our carbon fiber undercarriages are supplied as the landing gear struts only (undrilled). Mounting hardware, stub axles, wheels, and spats are available separately, allowing you to customize your setup exactly as needed.

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Engine and Ignition Questions

What brands of engines do you carry?

We stock quality gas/petrol engines and parts from:

• RCGF Stinger Engines – Known for reliability and power
• CRRC Engines – Including the popular GF40i b ut mainly spares now. Contact us for your CRRC spares
• RCEXL Ignition Systems – Industry-leading ignition solutions

What’s included with RCGF Stinger engines?

RCGF Stinger engines come as complete packages including:

• Engine with standoffs
• Silencers (mufflers)
• Ignition system
• Spark plugs
• Exhaust extensions
• All mounting bolts and gaskets

Everything you need to install and run – no hidden costs or additional parts required!

Are RCGF Stinger engines reliable?

Yes! RCGF Stinger engines have built a strong reputation in the RC community for:

• Consistent performance
• Quality construction
• Easy starting and tuning
• Smooth power delivery
• Lightweight design
• Excellent power-to-weight ratio

Many competitive pilots and scale enthusiasts trust Stinger engines for their builds.

What size engine do I need for my plane?

Engine sizing depends on your aircraft’s weight, wingspan, and intended use. General guidelines:

• 10-30cc: 40-60″ wingspan sport/aerobatic planes
• 40-50cc: 60-80″ wingspan sport and scale aircraft
• 60-100cc: 80-100″ wingspan scale warbirds and aerobatic planes
• 100cc+: Giant scale aircraft 100″+ wingspan

Contact us with your plane’s specifications, and we’ll recommend the appropriate engine size.

Do you sell engine spare parts?

Yes! We stock a range of engine spares and accessories including:

• Spark plugs (standard and iridium)
• Ignition systems (RCEXL)
• Propeller spinners
• Fuel dots and filters
• Mounting hardware
• Engine-specific replacement parts

What fuel should I use with gas/petrol engines?

Gas engines run on regular unleaded gasoline mixed with quality 2-stroke oil. Typical mix ratios are:

• Break-in period: 20:1 (richer oil mix)
• After break-in: 40:1 to 50:1

Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations in your engine manual. Use premium unleaded fuel for best performance and engine longevity.

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Ordering and Payment Questions

How do I place an order?

Simply browse our products, add items to your basket, and proceed to checkout. You’ll need to create an account or checkout as a guest. Follow the prompts to enter shipping information and complete payment.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept all major payment methods through our secure checkout system, including:

• Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express)
• Debit cards
• PayPal
• Other secure payment options displayed at checkout

Can I modify or cancel my order after placing it?

Please contact us immediately if you need to modify or cancel an order. If the order hasn’t been processed or shipped yet, we’ll do our best to accommodate your request. Once an order is shipped, modifications may not be possible.

Do I need to create an account to order?

You can checkout as a guest, but creating an account offers benefits:

• Faster checkout for future orders
• Order history tracking
• Saved shipping addresses
• Special offers and updates

Are prices shown in my currency?

Prices are displayed in British Pounds (£). Your payment provider will convert to your local currency at the current exchange rate during checkout.

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Shipping and Delivery Questions

How long does shipping take?

Delivery times vary by location and stock:

• UK: 2-5 business days
• Europe: 5-10 business days
• North America: 7-14 business days
• Rest of World: 7-21 business days

These are estimates and may vary during peak periods or due to customs processing. Visit our Delivery Information page for complete details.

How much does shipping cost?

Shipping costs are calculated based on your location and order weight. The exact cost will be displayed during checkout before you complete your purchase.

Do I have to pay customs or import duties?

UK orders will not incur import costs for your delivery even if an item is shipped from our international warehouse. For international orders (outside the UK), customs duties, taxes, or import fees may apply depending on your country’s regulations. These charges are the responsibility of the customer and are not included in our shipping costs. Contact your local customs office for specific information.

How can I track my order?

Once your order ships, you’ll receive a tracking number via email. Use this number to track your package through the carrier’s website.

What if my order arrives damaged?

If your order arrives damaged, please:

1. Document the damage with photographs
2. Contact us immediately through our Contact page
3. Provide your order number and photos

We’ll work quickly to resolve the issue through replacement or refund.

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Returns and Warranty Questions

What is your return policy?

We want you to be completely satisfied with your purchase. For detailed information on returns, exchanges, and refunds, please review our Terms & Conditions page.

Do carbon fiber undercarriages have a warranty?

Our carbon fiber products are manufactured to high standards. If you receive a defective product, please contact us within 14 days of receipt with photos and a description of the issue. We’ll arrange for replacement or refund as appropriate.

What if I receive the wrong item?

If you receive an incorrect item, please contact us immediately with:

• Your order number
• Photo of the item received
• Description of what was expected

We’ll arrange for the correct item to be sent out promptly.

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Product Compatibility Questions

Will this undercarriage fit my [specific plane model]?

For best results, compare the measurements of your current undercarriage to our product specifications. If unsure, contact us with your aircraft model and current gear measurements – we’ll confirm compatibility. Wea re trying to build a compatibility list. if you have purchased an undercarriage from us for a particular plane and found it fits well, please do let us know and we will add it to our developing list.

Can I use carbon fiber undercarriage on my foam plane?

Yes! Carbon fiber undercarriage works excellent with foam aircraft. The reduced weight is particularly beneficial for foam models. Just ensure proper mounting through reinforced areas of the foam structure.

Are your wheels compatible with other brands of undercarriage?

Our wheels are designed to work with standard stub axles. As long as your undercarriage uses conventional axle sizing, our wheels should fit. Check axle diameter specifications or contact us to confirm compatibility.

Do you sell complete landing gear sets with wheels?

We offer undercarriages separately to allow maximum customization. You can add stub axles, wheels of your choice, and optional spats to create your perfect landing gear setup.

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Technical Support Questions

I’m new to carbon fiber undercarriages. Do you offer installation advice?

Yes! We’re happy to provide installation guidance. Contact us with photos of your aircraft and specific questions, and we’ll help ensure proper installation.

How do I install carbon fiber undercarriage correctly?

General installation tips:

1. Test fit before drilling to confirm alignment
2. Use aircraft-quality mounting hardware
3. Apply threadlocker to prevent vibration loosening
4. Ensure gear is perpendicular to the thrust line
5. Use reinforcing plates on the mounting area if needed
6. Check alignment and screw tightness after first few flights

Can carbon fiber be repaired if damaged?

Minor surface damage can be repaired with epoxy resin patches. For significant structural damage, replacement is recommended for safety. We can advise on repair vs. replacement based on photos of the damage.

What propeller should I use with my engine?

Propeller selection depends on engine size, aircraft type, and flying style. Each RCGF Stinger engine listing includes recommended propeller sizes. Generally:

• Start conservative with smaller props during break-in
• Match to application: Larger diameter for torque, higher pitch for speed
• Check manufacturer specs for maximum prop size

Contact us with your specific setup for personalized recommendations.

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Account Questions

How do I reset my password?

On the login page, click “Lost your password?” and follow the instructions. You’ll receive an email with password reset instructions.

How do I update my account information?

Log into My Account where you can update:

• Billing and shipping addresses
• Email address
• Password
• Contact preferences

Can I save multiple shipping addresses?

Yes, you can save multiple addresses in your account for faster checkout to different locations.

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Still Have Questions?

If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, we’re here to help!

Contact us at: https://carbonrcparts.com/contact-us/

Business Hours: Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM GMT

We typically respond to all enquiries within 24 hours during business days.

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Related Resources

• Blog – Tips, guides, and RC news
• About Us – Learn more about Carbon RC Parts
• Privacy Policy – How we protect your information
• Terms & Conditions – Purchase terms and policies
• Delivery Information – Complete shipping details

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Thank you for choosing Carbon RC Parts! We’re passionate about providing quality components that enhance your RC flying experience. Happy flying! ✈️