Introduction
Upgrading and customizing your RC car is a thrilling process that allows you to personalize your vehicle and enhance its performance. In this article, we will explore the various upgrades and customizations available for your RC car, from cosmetic swaps to drivetrain enhancements. Let’s delve into the exciting world of RC car modifications!
The Traxxas Sledge Build Series: Upgrading the Chassis and Suspension
When it comes to building and upgrading RC vehicles, the Traxxas Sledge is undeniably popular among enthusiasts. With its impressive performance and versatility, many have pondered over the idea of making modifications to enhance its capabilities. In this Traxxas Sledge build series, we will explore the parts needed for an upgrade and how they can improve your RC experience.
The Chassis: A Strong Foundation
One of the essential components of any RC vehicle is the chassis, and the Traxxas Sledge is no exception. For this build, we have acquired a dark gray chassis, which is almost identical to the stock chassis, but with a sleek anodized finish. This simple change in color adds a touch of customization to our build. Alongside the chassis, we have also obtained matching gray and ice shock towers, providing both aesthetic appeal and stability.
Strengthening the Truggy
To enhance the Traxxas Sledge’s durability and performance, it’s crucial to reinforce certain areas. Starting with the rear hubs, we have opted for aluminum 6061 upgrades. These sturdy hubs offer greater strength and stability, ensuring a more robust racing experience. Additionally, we have replaced the caster blocks with finely machined counterparts that bear the T Rex logo – a testament to their quality. The inclusion of a composite knuckle with an aluminum plate further enhances rigidity and responsiveness.
Suspension Upgrades for Enhanced Performance
In the realm of suspension, our build series wouldn’t be complete without some notable upgrades. We have chosen a nitride coated shock shaft for smoother operation and increased longevity. The shock pins, which replace the lower screws in the arms, offer improved suspension movement. To fine-tune the suspension, we have also acquired optional springs, allowing for better customization depending on terrain and personal preference.
Moreover, we will be replacing the upper caps with black anodized aluminum counterparts. Not only do these caps complement the overall look of the build, but they also provide added durability and protection. Suspension upgrades are essential for achieving optimal performance and control, making adjustable turnbuckles another valuable addition to our build.
Transforming Your RC Car: Upgrades and Customizations
Cosmetic Swaps: Adding Style to Your Ride
Adding cosmetic swap-out pieces to your RC car can instantly transform its appearance. Traxxas offers a range of options, such as dark gray anodized tubes and acronym plates. These small details can greatly enhance the overall aesthetics of your RC car. Additionally, consider incorporating blue parts, like shock bodies, to add a pop of color and create a visually striking design.
Enhancing the Drivetrain: Improving Performance
The drivetrain plays a crucial role in determining the performance of your RC car. Upgrading certain components can significantly enhance its capabilities. Start by replacing the dog bones in the center and rear with Traxxas’ high-quality CVS. These CV joints offer improved durability and smoother power transmission.
For the driveline, consider investing in Traxxas’ machine ring and pinion gears. These gears provide better power transfer, resulting in enhanced speed and acceleration. Additionally, the aluminum differential carrier is an excellent choice for the center, as it offers increased stability and improved handling.
Don’t Forget About Sway Bars
Sway bars are often overlooked but play a crucial role in the overall stability and control of your RC car. Installing sway bars will minimize body roll during cornering, allowing for more precise steering and improved performance. Make sure not to overlook this important upgrade when enhancing your RC car.
Customization Beyond Traxxas
While Traxxas offers a range of fantastic upgrades, there are also other reputable brands worth exploring for customization options. J Concepts, for example, provides a wide range of accessories to further elevate your RC car’s performance and appearance. Consider their reflex tires and white rims, which offer excellent traction and a sleek aesthetic.
To add a personal touch, opt for a custom paint job by professionals like Larry from Custom RC Graphics. Their expertise can bring your RC car to life with unique designs and vibrant colors. Additionally, upgrading your radio system to a Futaba system can enhance the control and responsiveness of your vehicle.
The Final Truck in the Epic Sludge Build Series
In the final installment of the Epic Sludge Build series, the truck is finally complete. With its sleek design and impressive modifications, this track truck is bound to turn heads. Let’s take a closer look at the changes that have been made to the truck.
The J Concept F2 Body
One of the most noticeable changes to the truck is the installation of the J Concept F2 body. The body is attached using velcro, providing easy access for maintenance and adjustments. To add a personal touch, I sent the body to custom RC graphics for a unique racing paint scheme. The result is a stunning display of colors and design, truly making this truck stand out.
Modifications to the Body
In addition to the paint scheme, I made a few modifications to the body to enhance its performance. By cutting down the sides of the body, I was able to lower the overall profile. This not only improves the truck’s aerodynamics but also gives it a more aggressive and sleek look. To further secure the body, I added a J Concepts wing and aluminum wing buttons, drilling them out to fit the screws in all four corners. These additions not only provide stability but also contribute to the overall style of the truck.
J Concepts Reflex Tires
The choice of tires can greatly impact a truck’s performance on the track. That’s why I decided to go with J Concepts Reflex tires on their dish wheels. These tires are known for their exceptional grip and durability, making them perfect for intense racing. Not only do they complete the overall look of the truck, but they also ensure optimal handling on the track surface.
Enhancements Underneath the Body
While the exterior modifications are impressive, the enhancements made underneath the body are equally as important. Starting at the front, the truck has been equipped with top-of-the-line suspension components. This provides better control, stability, and maneuverability, allowing for precise cornering and faster lap times.
Additionally, the motor and electronics have been upgraded to maximize performance. A higher capacity battery and a more efficient motor have been installed, delivering increased speed and power. These enhancements, combined with the improved aerodynamics and handling, make this truck a force to be reckoned with on the track.
Upgraded Shocks for a Smooth Ride
I decided to keep the stock shock bodies and cartridges, but I made some important modifications to enhance performance. I added aluminum top shock caps for added durability and replaced the shock shaft with a Thai nitride shock shaft. These changes have greatly improved the smooth operating of the shocks, ensuring a better overall experience.
Optimizing Hinge Pin Plates and Shock Towers
Although I kept the stock hinge pin plates, I should have considered upgrading to their 70-75s for improved performance. However, I did manage to upgrade the shock towers to gray ones, which provide added strength and rigidity. These upgrades have contributed to the overall stability and reliability of the RC car.
Front Suspension Enhancements
To enhance the front suspension, I made a few key modifications. I added sway bars to improve stability during turns and adjustable turnbuckles to easily adjust toe and camber according to track conditions. These improvements allow for optimal performance and handling on different surfaces and track layouts.
Enhancing Rear Suspension for Smooth Performance
Similar to the front suspension, I made some changes to the rear suspension for better performance. I kept the stock shock bodies but replaced the shafts with Thai nitride shock shafts and added aluminum shock caps for durability. Additionally, I installed adjustable upper turnbuckles to fine-tune the camber. The sway bar further minimizes chassis roll, ensuring smooth performance on the RC Madness track.
Improved Rear Hubs and CV Drive Shafts
To optimize the rear suspension, I opted for aluminum rear hubs for added strength and reliability. Additionally, I took the opportunity to replace the rear hubs with CV drive shafts for improved performance and durability. These upgrades contribute to a more responsive and reliable rear suspension system.
Upgrading the Chassis for Enhanced Performance
To truly elevate the performance of my RC car, I chose to install an optional gunmetal, anodized chassis. This provides superior strength and stability, allowing for aggressive driving without compromising performance. I also removed unnecessary skids from the rear and countersunk as many holes as possible, reducing weight and improving aerodynamics.
By making these well-thought-out upgrades and modifications, I have significantly enhanced the performance, durability, and overall handling of my RC car. These improvements have allowed me to confidently tackle various track conditions and experience a smoother and more enjoyable drive.
Customizing Your RC Car for Maximum Performance
The Importance of Modifications
When it comes to RC cars, enthusiasts are always looking for ways to improve their performance. Customizing an RC car allows you to tailor it to your specific needs and preferences, resulting in better speed, agility, and overall satisfaction with your vehicle. In this article, we will explore the various modifications made to an RC car to enhance its performance on the track.
Upgrades in the Chassis
One of the first modifications made was the removal of the front skid plate. By eliminating this unnecessary component, the car’s weight distribution improved, providing better maneuverability on the track. Additionally, the rear portion of the countersunk was replaced with a specially ground-out pivot block. This modification ensured that the rear pins were securely held in place, even without the skid plate. These adjustments resulted in improved flexibility at the rear of the car, allowing for better traction and stability during races.
Optimizing Weight and Balance
In the pursuit of maximum performance, unnecessary components were removed from the car. The top stiffener bar, although initially thought to provide additional support, was deemed unnecessary for the chosen racing style. With a focus on downhill racing rather than jumps and landings, the upper stiffener was eliminated, reducing weight and improving the car’s agility. Additionally, extra bracing in the rear was removed, further optimizing weight distribution and allowing for greater rear flex.
Streamlining the Design
To minimize any potential drag and increase speed, the rear mud guards were partially cut off. This small adjustment had a significant impact on reducing unnecessary resistance, allowing the car to reach higher speeds on the track. Moreover, the battery tray was redesigned for greater convenience and security. The top strap was removed, and instead, Velcro was used to secure the battery packs in place. This modification not only simplified the process of changing batteries but also ensured a secure fit during races.
Enhancing Power and Performance
The motor mount was a crucial component that required upgrading. The stock motor plate did not allow for the use of a preferred sensored brushless motor. To address this issue, a hot racing motor mount was installed, enabling the desired motor to be easily attached. This improvement resulted in increased power and efficiency, providing a competitive edge on the track. Additionally, center CV drive shafts were added to further enhance the car’s overall performance and drivability.
The Final Touch: Electronics
In any RC car, the choice of electronics is crucial for top-notch performance. For this particular car, high-quality Teak and Racing gear were selected. These electronics were preferred due to their reliability, durability, and ability to handle the demands of competitive racing. The chosen electronics ensured smooth acceleration, precise control, and minimal downtime, making this modified RC car the ultimate machine for the track.
In conclusion, customizing an RC car allows for personalization and optimization. By making specific modifications to the chassis, weight distribution, design, power, and electronics, the performance of the car can be significantly enhanced. Each adjustment serves a purpose, taking the car one step closer to its maximum potential. So, if you want to take your RC racing to the next level, consider customizing your car and experience the thrill of improved performance on the track.
The T360 Servo: A Torque Powerhouse
The T360 Servo is a powerful tool that provides ample torque, making it an ideal choice for a variety of applications. When paired with the T8 motor and the RX8 speed controller, this servo offers exceptional performance and control. Its versatility makes it suitable for use in radio-controlled vehicles, such as trucks.
Team New Wave LiPo Battery: The Perfect Power Source
To power the T360 Servo, the Team New Wave LiPo battery is an excellent choice. Specifically, their shorty pack, which has a capacity of 6300mAh, is ideal for this setup. The battery is composed of two 2s packs, providing sufficient power to ensure the servo’s optimum functionality.
Securing the Batteries: A Smart Solution
In order to prevent the batteries from sliding back during use, a small aluminum plate was included with the motor mount assembly. Although its exact purpose is unclear, it was placed at the back of the battery tray for added security. This prevents any potential accidents or disruptions during operation.
Choosing the Right Oils
Although it is not explicitly mentioned, it is worth noting that the type of oil used in this setup can greatly affect its performance. The video description of this build will provide a comprehensive list of the oils used, ensuring complete transparency and enabling viewers to replicate the setup successfully.
Testing the Setup at RC Madness
To evaluate the performance of this build, a visit to RC Madness, a popular radio-controlled vehicle testing ground, was in order. Despite the added pressure of a TV camera crew present for a news story, the truck performed admirably. The responsiveness and control provided by the T360 Servo were particularly noteworthy, making for an enjoyable experience.
A Fun and Thrilling Experience
The overall build of this track truck proved to be an exciting venture. The combination of the T360 Servo, the T8 motor, and the RX8 speed controller, paired with the Team New Wave LiPo battery, created a formidable setup that offered immense power and control. With this setup, navigating corners and effortlessly clearing jumps became a thrilling experience, truly highlighting the capabilities of this build.
In conclusion, the T360 Servo, when combined with the T8 motor and the RX8 speed controller, proves to be a torque powerhouse. Paired with the Team New Wave LiPo battery, this setup offers an exceptional build for track trucks. The inclusion of smart solutions, such as the battery tray plate, adds an extra layer of security and convenience. By providing a comprehensive list of oils used, viewers can accurately replicate this setup. Finally, testing the build at RC Madness showcased its impressive performance and made for an exciting and enjoyable experience.
Why the Sledge is the Perfect Truck for the Track
Impressive Performance on the Track
The Sledge, one of the trucks in my project series, has undoubtedly become my favorite. As someone who used to race a lot, I am always on the lookout for vehicles that offer exceptional performance on the track. The Sledge did not disappoint. Right from the moment I took it out for a spin, I knew this was a worthy build. The truck handles beautifully, with smooth rotation and cornering abilities. It simply settles right in, making the whole experience enjoyable and exciting.
Mastering the Obstacles
Navigating through the whoops is a breeze with the Sledge. It effortlessly glides over them, making it the perfect choice for tackling challenging tracks. While it does feel a little loose in the rear, this can be attributed to the recent heavy rainfall in the area. As one of the first people to drive on the track after the rain, it was expected to encounter some pebbles on the top layer. Overall, though, the Sledge provided impressive traction and control, making it easy for me to navigate the course.
A Need for Speed
While I thoroughly enjoyed driving laps with the Sledge, I couldn’t help but feel that it needed a little more motor power. Perhaps a higher pinion gear would have given it the extra oomph it required on the track. Nevertheless, even with the current setup, the truck was a joy to drive and perform stunts with. It had a good balance of speed and control, allowing me to lay down laps and have a great time.
Converting the Sledge for Track Use
If you’re keen on taking the Sledge to the track and having some fun with it, I would highly recommend it. While it may require a few tweaks, such as a more powerful motor, it has all the potential to be a formidable competitor. Its ability to handle jumps, steer well, and rotate smoothly around corners makes it a fantastic choice for both beginners and experienced racers. So, don’t hesitate to convert your Sledge and join in on the thrill of racing.
Get Creative and Enjoy Your Traxxas Slash: A Project Series Review
When it comes to the Traxxas Slash, there is so much more you can do with this monster truck than just bash it around. In this project series, I have put together some fun builds that will allow you to get creative and truly enjoy your Traxxas Slash in different ways. From street trucks to badger trucks, let’s delve into each build and explore the unique features and experiences they offer.
The Street Truck: A Lowered Thrill
The street truck build was an absolute blast! With a lower height and a sleek design, it looked amazing zipping around the parking lot. Though I’m planning to tune it a bit more, the performance was already impressive. The only challenge was its proximity to the ground, making it slightly harder to navigate certain terrains. Nonetheless, the street truck build is perfect for those adrenaline-seeking enthusiasts who love the thrill of high-speed runs and the satisfaction of a visually striking vehicle.
The Badger Truck: Aggressive Off-Road Fun
Another enjoyable build was the badger truck, which featured the imposing Summit body. While some suggested removing the wing from the back of the truck, I decided to keep it intact. The reason behind this decision lies in the body design itself. Without the wing, the truck’s rear end seemed cut off and unbalanced. With the wing in place, it extended the body’s overall aesthetic and gave it a more polished look. Besides the beauty of this build, the badger truck performed exceptionally well when tearing through dirt tracks. It handled like a dream and provided a thrilling off-road adventure.
Check Out the Other Project Builds and Parts Used
If you haven’t had the chance to see my other project builds, I highly recommend checking them out. Each build offers a unique experience and showcases the versatility of the Traxxas Slash. To make it easier, I have provided links in the description of this article for your convenience.
Additionally, in the video description, you will find links to all the parts I used for these custom builds. Whether you want to replicate one of these projects or incorporate certain elements into your own creations, these links will provide you with everything you need.
Share Your Favorite Build
Now, I’d love to hear from you! Which build did you enjoy the most? Was it the street truck with its low-slung profile or the badger truck with its aggressive off-road capabilities? Share your thoughts and preferences in the comments section below. I’m excited to see which build sparks your interest the most and how you plan to personalize your Traxxas Slash in the future.
Remember, the possibilities with the Traxxas Slash are endless. Let your creativity shine, and enjoy the exhilaration that comes with customizing and exploring the full potential of your monster truck.
Conclusion
Building and upgrading an RC vehicle, such as the Traxxas Sledge, can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience for enthusiasts. From the chassis to suspension parts, every upgrade plays a vital role in enhancing performance, durability, and customization options. With the parts gathered for this Traxxas Sledge build series, we have set the stage for an exciting and improved RC experience. Stay tuned for the next installment as we delve deeper into this build and explore further modifications.
Upgrading and customizing your RC car is a rewarding experience that allows you to unleash your creativity while improving its overall performance. From cosmetic swaps to drivetrain enhancements, there are endless possibilities to transform your RC car into a personalized masterpiece. Embrace the excitement of customization and enjoy the thrill of an enhanced RC driving experience.
With its striking appearance and top-notch performance upgrades, the final truck in the Epic Sludge Build series is a true masterpiece. From the J Concept F2 body to the Reflex tires and the various tweaks underneath the body, this track truck is ready to conquer any racing challenge. Whether it’s tearing up the track or impressing onlookers, this truck is a testament to the endless possibilities of RC customization.
