New Engine Time

[tec_41]

I would love a new engine for my maxx. I haven't driven it in a while mainly because it's getting to be a real pita to tune that 2.5. So seeing as how the search feature isn't working, I have to start a new thread!


I haven't been in the nitro scene since before winter...I have had other priorities and stuff but now that I have time I started researching new engines. I know many people used to go with the OS .18cvrx for a replacement, but I would like a LITTLE bit more power. So how about the .18TM or TZ? Direct drop ins are always nice, and I wouldn't like to spend more than $150, and any advice is appreciated...thanks!

[chukb]

big block it.

[tec_41]

As helpful as that is...

But like I said, I would like a LITTLE more power, and a direct drop in. No big block conversions, no tranny shredders, just simple ol' .18 drop in.

[lordoftraxxas]

have you thought about the 3.3????

[nis720]

The 18tm is a direct drop in and uses the EZ start or 2.5 pull starter.

[Figit090]

i'm in the EXACT same boat as you. how much can the stock drivetrain handle?

[Duster_360]

I put an FR18 in my stock Tmaxx and was fine until breakin was over. Started stripping ring and pinion in the rear diff as soon as I strted to see what kind of power the FR18 would produce. I have a heavy finger.

Before it was over, I had to upgrade both diffs and drive axles before mine stopped breaking stuff. If you don't push it hard, it'll last longer. There is too much slop in an unshimmed diff for it to last with 18 power.

OS 18TM makes more power that the old FR18 I was fooling with. 3.3 drive axles will fix any drive axle probs though, trx got that right.

[Figit090]

what diffs did you get?

i'm thinking instead of a new truck i'm going to buy a lengthened chassis and get a big-block engine... then maybe with it lowered i could race some truggies...i dunno.

[tec_41]

I'm not considering the 3.3 at the moment...I would like to venture out and try some of the other brands.

The TM looks like a good choice. I have upgraded to cvd's so the only problem may be my diffs.

http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXHLW0&P=7

Unless anyone has a better choice or a reason not to get the TM, I'll be ordering this shortly with maybe a few other upgrades...Is the Motor Saver air filter recommended for OS engines?

Also, I will be ordering some plugs right off the bat. I used these in the 2.5 without any problems- http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXHPB6&P=7

It says in the description that it works in any rc that requires a long reach plug. So would these cheapies work alright?

[duratraxxman]

well u might need to get a med heat plug
instead of hot just a suggestion


-blake

[Figit090]

the plug supplied with the engine is an LC3 plug. and the plug towerhobbies says "people who purchased [your motor] also purchased" it.

http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXGPL6&P=M

maybe you already knew that because the plug you listed is a "possible alternative" to this one...not sure. but the link i gave is the one the pdf manual states should be used.

[tec_41]

Yeah, but $5.49 is a retarded price for a plug. Traxxas recommends their $6 plugs but I went with the $2 ones and they worked just as well. So I was hoping I could do the same with an OS engine :D

[tec_41]

I just went to ebay and bought an unused (but open) TM for $120...couldn't pass it up :)

[skylineTT]

when you get the TM in, use a motor saver airfilter made for the 2.5, then upgrade to the 3.3 diffs. i installed the 3.3 diffs and had a sirio .23 in my truck for a little and they hold up fine. you might just need the rear diff but i got both and im on CVDs too. the 3.3 has more power than the TM in my opinion but both are very close and the TM can hold a true tune for a while.