Axial SCX10 ii or Element Enduro kit as base for a class 2/3 crawler?

[_TRX-4_]

I already have a Traxxas TRX-4, with lockable diffs and 2 speed transmission. I want to get a 2nd crawler to drive around together with my son. I want to build a crawler that roughly fits in class 2 or 3. I don't want to run it in competitions. I don't want a 2nd TRX-4 unless portal axles are a must.

I will replace the kit chassis with a carbon LCG one, maybe a artful doger if they will be available again. I am from Europe so some US based chassis would have ridiculously high shipping costs.

I will use 4 channel Futaba T4PM to control it.

Some questions :

• Is the SCX10ii or Element is the better base? I like the Element transmission because of the over- under-drive options.
• Are none portable axels okay or should I think about a TRX-4 sport kit or some China axels?
• How hard/expensive is it to get 4 wheel steering?
• Axel or chassis mounted front servo?

 

[WHITE-TRASH]

Element transmission with 10.2 axles is what I'd do given those 2 choices.

 

[twade984]

• Is the SCX10ii or Element is the better base? I like the Element transmission because of the over- under-drive options.
  
  Just my opinion
  
  Element:
  Better transmission
  Better shocks
  Better links
  Better (universal joints) axle shafts
  
  Axial:
  More popular
  More after market part options
  Less bulky axle housings/better ring and pinion design.
  
  
• Are none portable axels okay or should I think about a TRX-4 sport kit or some China axels?
• 
  
  Personally I prefer non portal axles, i feel the added stability is more beneficial than the added ground clearance, and increased weight.
  
  I’m far from competitive though, that’s just how I feel when I drive my rigs twice a year [emoji2359]
  
• Axel or chassis mounted front servo?

[/QUOTE]

Axle mount for better performance. Chassis mount for better looks.


Idk if it’s an option, but if i were in your shoes I would try to get a Phoenix straight axle kit, sell everything but the axles, driveshafts, shocks and links, and then piece together the other parts you want.

Otherwise, I would probably start with an element.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[_TRX-4_]

If I could get a Phoenix straight axle kit for like $400 in Europe it would be an option but we pay over $550 for it in Europe (when it's not sold out).

Since I would need a 2nd Enduro Enduro axle for rear steering, a Enduro kit plus two SCX10ii axles would be within what I am willing to spend.

Should I use 1.9 or 2.2 tires?

 

[casco_bay_rc]

• Is the SCX10ii or Element is the better base? I like the Element transmission because of the over- under-drive options.

The Element transmission is killer for that feature alone, but the plastic gears could be an issue with serious torque.

• Are none portable axels okay or should I think about a TRX-4 sport kit or some China axels?

Non-portals are great for general and serious crawling. The main advantages to portals are the mitigation of torque twist and ground clearance. I'm partial to straight axles myself.

• How hard/expensive is it to get 4 wheel steering?

Expensive, but not hard. Simply buy a second front axle with the steering links and associated axle shafts.

• Axel or chassis mounted front servo?

Personal preference, IMO. I find 4-link front setups to work well on some vehicles vs. others with 3-link. Mounting the servo on the axle creates stronger steering input, but the servo itself can get in the way with an LCG or stock height rig.

 

[smog]

Find/Buy an Element Stealth transmission. Look up SSD RC, they are in UK, i believe. Pickup two complete Pro44 front axles, they are Axial compatible, but nicer. This is what I would/will do

 

[Speedy-Triple]

im with smog given you are in the EU ... the whole Trail King is an excellent kit that can be later on adapted to a LCG flat rail since its SCX-10-II based. I own a king and is without a doubt great value and the fit and finish are superb.

 

[Jbrick]

element for me. 2.2 for a little more clearance. axle mount servo from extreme RC and a little brass up front.