There are several reasons to upgrade your Slash 4x4 driveline. Whether you're
building a Monster Slash, creating a pure speed machine, or adding extreme
brushless power, these driveline upgrades will help you spend more time having fun
and less time at the repair bench. For a standard durability upgrade, see the
easy-to-install 6851R and 6852R drive shafts. However, today we will demonstrate
how to install the oversized 6mm axles from the XO-1 in the
Slash 4x4. These steel drive shafts are stronger
and larger than the stock shafts on the Slash 4x4. This upgrade works for any
tenth scale Slash 4x4 model including low CG models like the Platinum and Ultimate
series. The procedure also applies to the Stampede 4x4 and similar models. In order
to accommodate the larger axles we will install larger bearings, as well as the
upgraded carriers and steering blocks used on the XO-1. We will drill out the
center holes in the wheels to accept the larger 6mm stub axles. These are
the parts needed for the upgrade--see the links in the description.
Use the following tools and additional items to complete the upgrade: 1.5mm and
2.5mm hex tools like those included with the model, the four-way
wheel tool included with the model, a shop rag or microfiber cloth for
cleaning, a tube of thread locker, and an electric drill. Use caution when working
with a drill and always use eye protection. The necessary 6mm
drill bit is included with the 6869 hex adapters. A tube of silicone grease or
quality automotive grease can be used on the bearings if desired. Begin by
removing all four wheels with the four-way tool. Disconnect the turnbuckle
from the rear axle carrier.
Next, remove the pin that holds the suspension arm to the bottom of the axle carrier.
Remove the axle carriers--you will not need to reuse the carriers or bearings.
Use the 1.5mm driver to remove the screw pin holding the
driveshaft to the differential output. Remove the driveshaft. With both stock
drive shafts removed we will now attach the new drive shafts to the aluminum
axle carriers. Use the new 5117 bearings with the new axle carriers.
Put the small Teflon washer on the new driveshaft and then slide on the axle
carrier. Now we can attach the new aluminum hex hubs with the smooth side facing out.
Using the 1.5mm tool, secure each hex hub to the driveshaft
with the included screw. Make sure that the left and right markings on the axle
carriers face the rear end of the model. Clean off any excess dirt and install
the new drive shafts. Put each driveshaft in place and secure the suspension arm
to the axle carrier with the pin we removed earlier. Now install the screw to
secure the shaft to the differential output and tighten the suspension arm pin.
Use a small amount of thread locker on the screw that holds the turnbuckle
to the stub axle carrier and install the screw.
Repeat the process for the other side.
Double-check that the suspension compresses and extends smoothly before
moving on to the front. On the front end, start by disconnecting the turnbuckles
from the caster block and steering block,
then remove the suspension arm pin on the bottom. With the hardware removed,
pull out these components. Remove the inner half of the driveshaft by taking
out the screw pin that holds it to the differential output. Repeat the
disassembly for the other side.
Remove the shoulder screws from the original steering block and caster block
and separate the two pieces. Use the small flathead to pry off the hex hub
and remove the pin. This will allow us to get to the inner bearing which we will
re-use when installing the new front drive shafts. Take the new aluminum
steering blocks and assemble them with the new 5117 bearings and original inner
bearings from the stock steering blocks.
Now put the new front drive shafts through the steering blocks and attach
the aluminum hex hubs with the included hardware. The smooth side of the hex hub
should face out. Attach the original caster block to the aluminum steering
block. Secure with the shoulder screws removed earlier, using a dab of
thread locker on each screw.
The right and left markings on the steering blocks should face the front of
the model when installed. Now put the caster blocks back in place and secure
with the lower pin. Use the 1.5mm hex tool to install the screw
that attaches the drive shaft to the differential output. Tighten the lower
pin and re-attach the turnbuckles. Apply thread locker to the screw attaching the
steering link to the steering block. Repeat assembly for the other side. Now
we will drill the centers of the wheels to accommodate the larger axles. Use an
electric drill or drill press with the included 6mm drill bit.
Wear eye protection and always use care and adult supervision with power tools.
Line up the drill with the center hole on each wheel and carefully drill out
the holes. Wipe off any debris and re-install the wheels using the original wheel nuts.
Now your model is ready to go. For more tips, tricks, and upgrades, visit us at Traxxas.com.