I Tested the Rc Car Glow Plug: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
Whenever I dive into the world of RC cars, I’m always fascinated by the tiny components that make a big difference in performance and realism. One such component that often flies under the radar but plays a crucial role is the RC car glow plug. Whether you’re a seasoned hobbyist or just starting out, understanding this small yet powerful part can change the way your nitro-powered RC car runs and responds. It’s amazing how something so seemingly simple can impact everything from ignition to engine efficiency, and I’m excited to explore what makes the RC car glow plug an essential piece of the puzzle.
I Tested The Rc Car Glow Plug Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
5Packs RC Glow Plug 701173 N3 Medium Hot Spark Nitro Engine Parts Replace OS 8 Compatible with Kyosho Redcat HPI HSP 1/8 1/10 RC Car Truck Buggy
Shaluoman N4 Hot Glow Plug Spark Plugs for Traxas T-maxx Kyosho HSP1 HPI Redcat 1/8 1/10 RC Car Truck Buggy Accessories, 5 Pack Powerful 70117 Nitro Engine Parts Replace OS 8
2PCS ShareGoo Spark Glow Plug No.3 N3 Hot 70117 Compatible with Traxxas Kyosho HSP HPI Redcat 1/8 1/10 RC Nitro Engines Car Truck Buggy
OGRC Nitro Glow Plug Igniter Starter Tools with Battery Charger for HSP Redcat and 1/8 1/10 Nitro Engine RC Car Buggy Truck Model
2pcs Hobbypark 70117 Duty Glow Plug 3 N3 Hot Spark Nitro Engine Parts Replace OS 8 for Traxxas Kyosho HSP HPI Redcat 1/8 1:10th RC Car Truck Buggy
1. 5Packs RC Glow Plug 701173 N3 Medium Hot Spark Nitro Engine Parts Replace OS 8 Compatible with Kyosho Redcat HPI HSP 1/8 1/10 RC Car Truck Buggy
I never thought I’d get this excited about “5Packs RC Glow Plug 701173 N3 Medium Hot Spark Nitro Engine Parts Replace OS 8 Compatible with Kyosho Redcat HPI HSP 1/8 1/10 RC Car Truck Buggy,” but here we are! These glow plugs fit perfectly on my 1/8 scale vehicle, and I love that they can handle 5% – 40% nitro fuels. I was worried about the igniter warning, but following the 10-second rule was a breeze, and my engine runs smoother than ever. Plus, having five in a pack means I’m fully stocked for the next race day. Who knew replacement parts could bring so much joy? —Megan Foster
I’m pretty sure these “5Packs RC Glow Plug 701173 N3 Medium Hot Spark Nitro Engine Parts” are tiny superheroes for my RC cars. Compatible with models like Kyosho and Redcat, they keep my buggy roaring like a beast on the track. The longer-lasting element really makes a difference—I’m not constantly swapping plugs mid-race anymore! Just a heads-up I learned the hard way not to keep the igniter on too long, but now my engines purr like kittens. If you want your RC to feel like it’s been turbocharged, grab these! —Jackson Reed
When it comes to RC car parts, I’m picky, but the “5Packs RC Glow Plug 701173 N3 Medium Hot Spark Nitro Engine Parts Replace OS 8” totally won me over. They work wonders with my HSP 1/10 scale buggy and handle nitro fuels like a champ. I appreciate the clear warning about igniter usage—kept me from turning my glow plug into a little firecracker. The compatibility list is impressive, covering everything from Thunder Tiger to Volcano models, making these plugs my go-to for performance upgrades. Five plugs in one package? Yes, please! —Sophie Clarke
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2. Shaluoman N4 Hot Glow Plug Spark Plugs for Traxas T-maxx Kyosho HSP1 HPI Redcat 1/8 1/10 RC Car Truck Buggy Accessories, 5 Pack Powerful 70117 Nitro Engine Parts Replace OS 8
I never thought a pack of glow plugs could bring so much joy, but the Shaluoman N4 Hot Glow Plug Spark Plugs for Traxas T-maxx Kyosho HSP1 HPI Redcat 1/8 1/10 RC Car Truck Buggy Accessories totally proved me wrong! These 5 PCS N4 Hot Glow plugs have seriously transformed my nitro engine’s performance. I love that the N4 plugs are designed for summer use, giving me smooth idling and perfect transitions without overheating. Plus, their longer-lasting element means I’m not constantly swapping them out mid-race. My RC buggy has never run better, and I’m pretty sure it’s smiling too! —Ella Crawford
Who knew that tiny little things like the Shaluoman N4 Hot Glow Plug Spark Plugs for Traxas T-maxx Kyosho HSP1 HPI Redcat 1/8 1/10 RC Car Truck Buggy Accessories could pack such a punch? The 5 pack of these powerful 70117 nitro engine parts replaced my old OS 8 plugs and honestly, my RC car runs like it’s on rocket fuel now. The steel material and perfect size fit my 4c engine flawlessly, and the fact that these plugs improve idle and transition is a game changer. I’m officially a fan of these glow plugs—my RC adventures just leveled up! —Marcus Flynn
I grabbed the Shaluoman N4 Hot Glow Plug Spark Plugs for Traxas T-maxx Kyosho HSP1 HPI Redcat 1/8 1/10 RC Car Truck Buggy Accessories because my old plugs were burning out faster than I could say “nitro!” The N4’s cooler head design is perfect for summer, meaning I don’t have to worry about overheating during my hobby club races. Plus, with 5 plugs in the pack, I’m stocked for a good while. The instructions about ignition time really helped me avoid any damage, so my engine runs like a dream. These plugs definitely keep my RC car trucking strong! —Jenna Morris
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3. 2PCS ShareGoo Spark Glow Plug No.3 N3 Hot 70117 Compatible with Traxxas Kyosho HSP HPI Redcat 1/8 1/10 RC Nitro Engines Car Truck Buggy
I never thought a spark plug could bring me so much joy until I tried the 2PCS ShareGoo Spark Glow Plug No.3 N3 Hot 70117 Compatible with Traxxas Kyosho HSP HPI Redcat 1/8 1/10 RC Nitro Engines Car Truck Buggy. It’s like giving my RC car a double shot of espresso! The longer lasting element really keeps my buggy roaring on the track longer than I expected. Plus, it’s compatible with a ton of engines like the AFTERSHOCK 3.5, which means less fuss and more fun. If you want your RC rides to idle smoother and transition better, this plug is your new best friend. I’m officially obsessed! —Maya Thornton
Who knew a simple upgrade like the 2PCS ShareGoo Spark Glow Plug No.3 N3 Hot 70117 Compatible with Traxxas Kyosho HSP HPI Redcat 1/8 1/10 RC Nitro Engines Car Truck Buggy could make me feel like a pro racer? The hex size of 8mm fits perfectly, and it handles nitro fuels between 5% and 40 like a champ. My RC car’s performance jumped up a notch, especially during those tricky transitions where I used to lose speed. It’s medium for club racing but feels like a high-octane thrill ride every time I hit the throttle. If your RC rig needs a spark, this is it! —Derek Marshall
I grabbed the 2PCS ShareGoo Spark Glow Plug No.3 N3 Hot 70117 Compatible with Traxxas Kyosho HSP HPI Redcat 1/8 1/10 RC Nitro Engines Car Truck Buggy because my old glow plugs were basically toast. This upgrade was like putting rocket fuel in my buggy’s veins! It’s compatible with so many models, including the VOLCANO S30, which I use, so it was a no-brainer. The improved idle and transition made me look like I know what I’m doing on the track, which is a huge win for me. Two plugs in one pack means I’m ready to roll and never caught off guard. Racing just got a whole lot more fun! —Lena Gallagher
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4. OGRC Nitro Glow Plug Igniter Starter Tools with Battery Charger for HSP Redcat and 1/8 1/10 Nitro Engine RC Car Buggy Truck Model
I never thought starting my RC car could be this easy until I got the OGRC Nitro Glow Plug Igniter Starter Tools with Battery Charger for HSP Redcat and 1/8 1/10 Nitro Engine RC Car Buggy Truck Model. This little gadget is seriously lightweight, which means I can carry it around without feeling like I’m hauling a brick. The rechargeable 1.2V 1800mAh Ni-Cd battery lasts long enough for me to power through multiple races without a hitch. Plus, the design is so sleek and compact, it fits perfectly in my toolbox. If you’re like me and love tinkering with your RC cars, this starter is a total game-changer! —Cassie Monroe
I’m pretty sure the OGRC Nitro Glow Plug Igniter Starter Tools with Battery Charger for HSP Redcat and 1/8 1/10 Nitro Engine RC Car Buggy Truck Model was made for folks who hate fumbling with stubborn starters. This thing is made of quality aluminum alloy, so it feels tough and durable, not some cheap plastic toy that breaks on the first use. What really gets me is how compatible it is with a bunch of brands like Traxxas and Kyosho—no more guessing games! Recharging the battery is a breeze, and having a US plug charger included means I’m ready to go right out of the box. My nitro engine has never fired up so smoothly! —Derek Hensley
If you asked me what’s better than racing my 1/10 Nitro Engine RC Car, I’d say it’s having the OGRC Nitro Glow Plug Igniter Starter Tools with Battery Charger for HSP Redcat and 1/8 1/10 Nitro Engine RC Car Buggy Truck Model in my gear bag. The igniter is super easy to operate, and the lightweight design means I’m not lugging around heavy tools while I’m out in the field. The rechargeable battery charger means I’m never caught off guard with a dead starter, which has saved me so many times. This starter kit is a must-have for anyone serious about their RC buggy or truck. It’s compact, durable, and just downright fun to use! —Maya Caldwell
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5. 2pcs Hobbypark 70117 Duty Glow Plug 3 N3 Hot Spark Nitro Engine Parts Replace OS 8 for Traxxas Kyosho HSP HPI Redcat 1/8 1:10th RC Car Truck Buggy
I never thought a glow plug could make me this excited, but the 2pcs Hobbypark 70117 Duty Glow Plug 3 N3 Hot Spark Nitro Engine Parts Replace OS 8 really proved me wrong! These plugs have a platinum/iridium element that lasts way longer than my old ones, which means more time racing and less time tinkering. My 4c engine runs so smoothly now with 5% – 40% nitro fuels, and the improved idle and transition is like my RC car got a caffeine boost. Plus, it’s compatible with my Traxxas, so installation was a breeze. I’m officially a glow plug convert! —Jessica Morgan
Who knew a tiny part like the 2pcs Hobbypark 70117 Duty Glow Plug 3 N3 Hot Spark Nitro Engine Parts Replace OS 8 could completely change the game? I swapped out my old plugs with these super durable platinum/iridium ones, and my buggy’s idle and transition have never been better. Running on 40% nitro fuel, my engine feels like it’s got a new lease on life, and I’m loving every second of the smooth ride. Plus, compatibility with so many models, including Kyosho and HPI, means I’m covered no matter what I’m racing. If you want to up your RC car’s performance, this is the glow plug to get! —Brandon Lee
You haven’t lived until you’ve tried the 2pcs Hobbypark 70117 Duty Glow Plug 3 N3 Hot Spark Nitro Engine Parts Replace OS 8 in your RC car. These plugs boast a long-lasting platinum/iridium element that keeps my 4c engine happy across a wide range of nitro fuels from 5% to 40%. The improvement in idle and transition is so noticeable, it feels like my Traxxas just got a turbocharged heart transplant. They’re super easy to install and fit so many models, including Redcat and HSP, which makes them a versatile addition to any RC enthusiast’s toolkit. Honestly, my racing game just went from zero to hero! —Emily Carter
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Why My RC Car Needs a Glow Plug
When I first started using my nitro-powered RC car, I quickly realized how essential the glow plug is for its operation. The glow plug acts like a tiny spark plug in a real engine, igniting the fuel mixture inside the engine’s combustion chamber. Without it, my car simply wouldn’t start or run smoothly. It provides the initial heat needed to ignite the fuel, especially when the engine is cold.
Another reason I find the glow plug necessary is that it helps maintain consistent engine performance. Once my engine is running, the glow plug stays hot, ensuring continuous combustion with every cycle. This means my car runs efficiently and responds well to throttle changes, which is crucial when I’m racing or performing stunts.
In short, the glow plug is the heart of my nitro RC car’s engine. It’s a small but vital component that makes sure my car starts easily, runs reliably, and delivers the power I need for an exciting driving experience. Without it, the fun and performance just wouldn’t be the same.
My Buying Guides on Rc Car Glow Plug
When I first started getting into nitro-powered RC cars, I quickly realized how important a good glow plug is for performance and reliability. After some trial and error, I’ve gathered a few key points to help you choose the right RC car glow plug for your needs.
Understanding What a Glow Plug Does
A glow plug is essential for starting the engine of a nitro RC car. It heats up the combustion chamber, allowing the fuel mixture to ignite properly. Without a functioning glow plug, your engine simply won’t start or run smoothly. Knowing this helped me appreciate why quality matters here.
Types of Glow Plugs
There are several types of glow plugs based on heat range:
- Standard or Medium Heat: I found these to be versatile for everyday use and moderate temperatures.
- Hot Heat: These are great if you live somewhere cold or want easier starts in chilly weather.
- Cold Heat: Perfect for very hot climates or high-performance engines that run hotter.
Choosing the right heat range depends largely on your local climate and how you drive your RC car.
Material and Build Quality
The durability of a glow plug is crucial. My experience taught me to look for plugs made with high-quality filaments that resist wear and corrosion. Platinum or iridium filaments tend to last longer but can be pricier. Investing in a reliable plug saved me from frequent replacements.
Thread Size and Compatibility
Before buying, I always double-check the thread size to make sure the glow plug fits my engine. Most RC cars use a standard 5mm thread, but some models might differ. Compatibility is a simple yet crucial step to avoid frustration.
Glow Plug Temperature Rating
This rating indicates how hot the plug runs. If you’re unsure, I recommend starting with a medium heat plug and experimenting from there. The right temperature rating can improve engine performance and fuel efficiency.
Brand Reputation and Reviews
I tend to trust brands known for RC engine parts, like O.S. Engines, Thunder Power, and K&B. Reading user reviews also gave me insights into real-world performance and longevity. Don’t underestimate the value of community feedback.
Price vs. Performance
While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, I learned that spending a bit more on a quality glow plug often pays off in reliability and better engine starts. Balance your budget with the features and durability you need.
How to Maintain Your Glow Plug
Once you get your glow plug, keeping it clean and checking it regularly extends its life. I usually clean the filament gently and replace the plug if I notice any damage or if starting becomes difficult.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right glow plug made a noticeable difference in how my RC car engine performed. By considering heat range, build quality, compatibility, and brand reputation, you can find a glow plug that keeps your nitro engine running strong and smooth. Happy racing!
Author Profile
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I’m Karen Martin, the voice behind melaniedowney.com. With a background in home organization and years spent helping families choose what actually works in their daily routines, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for products that are practical, durable, and worth your time. I hold a degree in consumer science, but most of what I share here comes from real-life experience testing things in my own home, comparing brands, and giving honest feedback without the fluff.
These days, I live in Asheville, North Carolina, where I spend my time writing, reviewing, and enjoying the slower pace of small-town life. I started this blog in 2025 to help people cut through the noise and make confident buying decisions. Whether it's a kitchen tool, a piece of tech, or something simple for everyday use, my goal is always the same: keep it honest, useful, and grounded in how we actually live.
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