Completely new to scalers and the SCX10

[pastimesteve]

Hi guys -- I've been in off-road RC since 1983, starting with a Tamiya Hornet way back when, and currently own a couple of Tamiyas (TB01 and DT02) and a Traxxas Rustler.

Living in Colorado, I've really wanted a scaler I could take with me and my kids when we go hiking. I don't really want something for crawling, but a nice scale-looking vehicle with some wheel speed and torque -- when I need it -- for trailing, mud, and ripping through brush when I want to. So, I've settled on a SCX-10 dingo kit when I have some cash.

Now, being new to scalers, I don't understand a lot of the terminology you guys use. After extensive searches here and on scale4x4, I still can't determine what upgrades (and associated part numbers) I really need for a trail-specific truck vs. something for semi-serious crawling. A lot of you guys seem to like doing both, which isn't really what I want to do.

Is there a central FAQ for the SCX10 somewhere that I just haven't found? I know I don't want anything slower than a 35t motor, as again, I want some wheel speed and I want waterproofed electronics. Basically, I want to be able to bash the thing on the trails without stuff breaking.

Thanks for any help, or links to specific part numbers for the most robust/reliable and necessary upgrades. For example, I've been so confused about Axial upgrade outdrives vs. other makes (or if the kit-supplied outdrives are sufficient); the best metal transmission gears; MIP shafts vs. stock vs. other brands; steering needs; lockers; etc., etc. Another example, I know the Dingo kit comes with an aluminum steering arm -- is that enough?

Thanks again,
Steve

[thisdougsforu]

Hey Steve, as a relatively new SCX10 owner who mainly does trail riding, you really don't NEED anything. Out of the box they are good for having fun on the trail.

That being said, the main thing you'd want to upgrade at least getting a low turn, high torque motor, and make sure your ESC has a drag brake. That's really all you need to tackle a variety of stuff. Of course, I've found it fun to upgrade all sorts of things on the truck. The SCX10 is super versatile. Just get one and go bash with it, upgrade if you feel you want more power.

[rebel35747]

i agree with thisdougsforu. run it out of the box. they're great trucks, and don't require upgrades to run with some of the best. spend the money on a good servo and esc/motor(you stated you was getting the kit). a good esc is a tekin fxr and can be purchased as a combo with a number of motors, also the Holmes hobbies br-xl is an outstanding esc and can be ordered already waterproofed, plus he sells combo's to. a decent servo that won't break the bank is a hitec mg645. should be plenty for what you have planned for the truck. drive it like you stole it, if it breaks, then upgrade it!

[rebel35747]

if you haven't read this thread, Need some advice got my SCX10 Dingo kit it's great. not only tell's what upgrades most of us do, but actually explains how they effect the performance of the truck in most cases. very informative

[Archangel]

I would get this for your servo. I run one of these and they are dirt cheap and I think they work out to some thing like 165 oz/in of torque.

[pastimesteve]

Thanks guys! Your replies are very much appreciated! Archangel -- did you mean to embed a link to a servo? If so, it's not showing up, unless you're talking about rebel's recommendation of the hitec mg645.

Steve