The Journey Begins
In 1981, Rick built his first RC airplane. The engine it came with—a Brat .26—was underpowered, but it introduced him to a world that would shape his future. One day, an older gentleman named Marvin Staley noticed Rick struggling and offered to help. Rick watched in awe as Marvin pulled the engine apart with precision. At that moment, something clicked. He didn’t just observe—he understood. That experience sparked his lifelong obsession with performance.
The Turning Point
Years later, Rick purchased an OPS .12 engine for his RC car. Once again, the power was lacking—so he took it apart and applied what he had learned. That weekend at the track, he outperformed everyone. When asked what he had done, he simply replied, “Just a little work.” Soon, racers were lining up, asking him to tune their engines too. What started as a hobby quickly evolved into something bigger. Encouraged by those around him, Rick launched what would become known as RB Mods.
The Rise of RB Mods
At the time, engine modifiers were rare—only two others were known in the scene. But word about Rick spread fast. His engines weren’t just fast; they were consistent, reliable, and powerful. Racers took notice. Clients began to send engines from all over. Rick pushed the boundaries, developed his own parts, and explored new modification techniques. He wasn’t just enhancing engines—he was redefining them.
Today
RB Mods is now a respected name in the RC Nitro engine world. Rick’s engines hold several world records, and his contributions to innovation have impacted the industry globally. He has worked with major manufacturers, developed proprietary upgrades, and mentored racers and hobbyists alike. What began as one man’s curiosity has become a career built on skill, precision, and trust. Rick continues to do what he loves, with the same passion that started it all.