RC Car Action

› Short-course vs. Monster Truck

Traxxas Stampede 4X4 & Slash 4X4 head to head

- By Kevin Hetmanski

THEY’RE WATERPROOF

Whether you go Stampede 4X4 or Slash 4X4, you’re getting Traxxas’ waterproof Velineon brushless system, steering servo, and receiver box. This makes them great for running in snow, rain, or mud without having to worry about damaging the electronic­s onboard.

THEY’RE FAST

Both trucks are rated for 3S Lipo packs, and when geared for speed, each can top 60mph. On their included 7-cell NIMH Powercell batteries, you’re looking at over 30mph. Plenty quick.

FULL-TIME 4WD

A splined, tubular aluminum driveshaft spins sealed, silicone-filled differenti­als to deliver 4WD through metal ring and pinion gears. Telescopin­g driveshaft­s get power to the wheels, and Traxxas’ heavy-duty slipper clutch protects the drivetrain. All ball-bearing, of course.

ULTRA-SHOCK SUSPENSION

Despite their very different appearance with body and wheels mounted, both the Slash and Stampede use identical suspension systems—shock towers, arms, hub carriers, the works. That includes the shocks themselves, which are Traxxas’ plastic-body Ultra Shocks. Aluminum is always sexier, but the Ultras are very smooth and reliable performers.

TRAXXAS STABILITY MANAGEMENT

…or TSM for short. Traxxas’ electronic stability system is sophistica­ted tech, but using it is simple: just turn the

 ??  ?? The Slash’s longer wheelbase allows room for a 7-cell flat pack instead of a “hump” style. Note the On-board Audio control box on the front of the chassis.
The Slash’s longer wheelbase allows room for a 7-cell flat pack instead of a “hump” style. Note the On-board Audio control box on the front of the chassis.
 ??  ?? Both trucks use Traxxas’ Velineon brushless system to get around in a hurry.
Both trucks use Traxxas’ Velineon brushless system to get around in a hurry.
 ??  ?? The Slash gets Traxxas’ On-board Audio system for authentic V8 engine snarl when you hit the gas.
The Slash gets Traxxas’ On-board Audio system for authentic V8 engine snarl when you hit the gas.

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from United States