Traxxas X-Maxx 8S: The Ultimate Upgrade Guide

Introduction

Brief overview of the Traxxas X-Maxx 8S

The Traxxas X-Maxx 8S is a high-performance remote-controlled monster truck designed for off-road adventures. The truck is powered by a brushless motor and capable of reaching speeds over 50mph. It also features four-wheel drive, massive tires, and a waterproof design that allows it to tackle any terrain with ease.

With its impressive capabilities, the Traxxas X-Maxx 8S has become a popular choice among RC enthusiasts who enjoy pushing their machines to the limit. However, even with its robust design, there are always ways to improve its performance and durability. Importance of upgrades for improving performance and durability

The importance of upgrades for improving performance and durability cannot be overstated. Upgrades can enhance your RC experience by increasing speed, handling, and power. Additionally, they can improve the overall durability of your vehicle by preventing parts from breaking or wearing out too quickly.

Without upgrades, your Traxxas X-Maxx 8S might struggle to keep up with other high-performance vehicles on the track or trail. Upgrades can give you an edge over your competition which is vital if you are into racing or competitive driving.

Upgrades also provide an opportunity for customization which makes your RC vehicle unique to you. You can add custom body wraps or LED lights that reflect your personality or style.

Upgrading your truck means extending its lifespan. Even though the X-Maxx is built tough from the start there’s always room for improvement which means less wear-and-tear on stock components leading to more enjoyable usage overall.

Chassis Upgrades

Aluminum Chassis Brace Set

One common issue that many people face when using the Traxxas X-Maxx 8S is chassis flex. Chassis flex can occur when the truck is under load or during a high-speed jump.

It can cause instability, loss of control, and ultimately damage to the chassis. An aluminum chassis brace set is an excellent upgrade for reducing chassis flex.

The brace set consists of two pieces of aluminum that bolt onto the front and rear of the truck’s chassis. This upgrade helps keep everything in place even when subject to extreme conditions. Heavy-Duty Suspension Arms

The X-Maxx’s suspension system is already beefed-up compared to other RC vehicles on the market; however, heavy-duty suspension arms are still a wise investment if you want maximum durability. These suspension arms are made from thicker and stronger materials than the stock parts allowing for harder landings without breaking. Steel Driveshaft Assembly

The driveshaft assembly on the X-Maxx 8S takes a considerable amount of stress while driving off-road. Upgrading to a steel driveshaft assembly increases strength and durability, which means fewer chances for breakage.

Powertrain Upgrades

High-Torque Servo

The Traxxas X-Maxx 8S comes with a standard servo that may not be strong enough when it comes to handling such a large truck; it could become overwhelmed by some situations making steering more difficult than it needs to be. A high-torque servo provides added power, allowing you to steer your vehicle easily through any situation with ease. Brushless Motor Upgrade

Upgrading your motor is one way to increase speed and power in your Traxxas X-Maxx 8S. A brushless motor upgrade will provide more efficiency leading towards longer running times at higher speeds while remaining cooler overall. LiPo Battery Upgrade

The battery that comes with the X-Maxx 8S kit is already powerful, but a LiPo battery upgrade can provide even more power for longer running times. LiPo batteries pack more energy into a smaller package than traditional NiMH batteries. They also have a higher discharge rate, which means more power can be delivered to your motor.

Body and Appearance Upgrades

LED Light Kit

Adding an LED light kit to your Traxxas X-Maxx 8S does not only improve visibility at night but also adds an extra level of realism and excitement to your driving experience. ProGraphix Custom Body Wrap

A custom body wrap allows you to personalize your vehicle with designs ranging from camouflage or flames to company logos or your own personal artwork. The wrap is made from high-quality material that provides excellent protection while showing off your unique style! Aluminum Shock Caps

Shock caps are often overlooked when considering upgrades, but they play a crucial role in the performance of the truck’s suspension system. Aluminum shock caps reduce weight while increasing durability by providing better sealing against dirt and moisture entering those sensitive areas.

Miscellaneous Upgrades

Heavy Duty Steering Linkage Set

The steering system on the Traxxas X-Maxx 8S is one of its most critical components. Upgrading the steering linkage set will allow for a smoother and more responsive driving experience overall. Aluminum Differential Housing Carrier

Replacing stock differential housing carriers with upgraded aluminum versions provides superior strength leading towards less chance of breaking under load allowing for better overall reliability.

Conclusion

There are many different upgrades available for improving the performance and durability of your Traxxas X-Maxx 8S. The upgrades discussed in this article are some of the most common and effective options – however, you should do your research to identify which options best fit your specific needs.

Upgrading can be a fun and rewarding experience that ultimately enhances the overall enjoyment of your RC vehicle. Whether you’re looking to improve handling, increase speed, or make your truck stand out from the crowd, there’s an upgrade out there designed just for you!

Chassis Upgrades for Traxxas X-Maxx 8S

Aluminum Chassis Brace Set

If you are looking to upgrade your Traxxas X-Maxx 8S for heavy-duty use, an aluminum chassis brace set should be a top priority. This upgrade will provide added strength and support to your truck’s chassis, helping to prevent flexing and bending during intense driving sessions. The brace set includes both front and rear braces, ensuring maximum support across the entire chassis.

The Traxxas 7748X aluminum chassis brace set is made from high-quality materials that are designed for maximum durability. The braces are CNC-machined from aircraft-grade aluminum, which is known for its strength and resistance to wear and tear.

Additionally, the braces feature a sleek anodized finish that not only looks great but also adds an extra layer of protection against scratches and other damage. Overall, upgrading your Traxxas X-Maxx 8S with an aluminum chassis brace set is a smart investment that will help ensure your truck can handle even the toughest terrain without suffering any damage or degradation in performance.

Heavy-Duty Suspension Arms

The suspension system of your Traxxas X-Maxx 8S plays a critical role in ensuring smooth handling and maximum performance on bumpy or uneven terrain. As such, upgrading to heavy-duty suspension arms can greatly enhance your truck’s overall driving experience. The Traxxas 7731X heavy-duty suspension arms are specially designed to withstand the stresses of high-speed off-road driving while keeping your vehicle stable and responsive.

These arms are made from ultra-durable materials that provide excellent resistance against impacts and abrasions. In addition to their rugged durability, these suspension arms are also designed to provide maximum adjustability and fine-tuning capabilities.

This means you can easily customize your truck’s suspension system for different driving conditions, ensuring optimal performance in any situation. Overall, the Traxxas 7731X heavy-duty suspension arms are a must-have upgrade for any serious Traxxas X-Maxx 8S enthusiast looking to take their driving experience to the next level.

Steel Driveshaft Assembly

The driveshaft assembly of your Traxxas X-Maxx 8S is responsible for transferring power from the motor to the wheels. As such, it is essential that this component is both durable and reliable, especially when used in extreme off-road conditions. The Traxxas 7750R steel driveshaft assembly is a high-quality upgrade that provides superior strength and durability compared to stock driveshafts.

The assembly features heavy-duty steel components that are designed to withstand even the most intense driving conditions. Not only does upgrading to a steel driveshaft assembly improve your truck’s overall durability and reliability, but it also ensures smooth operation and minimal power loss during high-speed runs.

Additionally, this upgrade can help prevent damage to other components such as gears or differentials by absorbing shock and reducing stress on these parts. Upgrading your Traxxas X-Maxx 8S with a steel driveshaft assembly is a smart investment that will keep your truck running smoothly and reliably no matter how intense your off-road adventures become.

Powertrain Upgrades

The powertrain of the Traxxas X-Maxx 8S is a vital component that needs to be upgraded for better performance and durability. Power upgrades can help your truck conquer any terrain and crush anything that stands in its way. Here are some of the best powertrain upgrades for your X-Maxx 8S:

High-Torque Servo

The high-torque servo upgrade is one of the best investments you can make in your X-Maxx 8S if you want to improve its performance. The stock servo that comes with the truck is not strong enough to handle heavy-duty applications, and it’s prone to failure.

A high-torque servo, on the other hand, has more power, speed, and precision than a stock servo. When looking for a high-torque servo upgrade for your X-Maxx 8S, choose one with at least 400 oz-in of torque or higher.

This will give you better control over the steering and throttle functions of your truck. You should also look for servos with metal gears as they are more durable than plastic ones.

Brushless Motor Upgrade

A brushless motor upgrade is one of the most popular upgrades among Traxxas enthusiasts because it provides more power and speed than a brushed motor. Brushless motors are also more efficient, which means they run cooler and last longer than brushed motors.

When choosing a brushless motor upgrade for your X-Maxx 8S, look for one that has at least 2200kv or higher with a waterproof design. You should also choose a motor with an ESC (Electronic Speed Control) that matches its power output rating.

LiPo Battery Upgrade

A LiPo (Lithium Polymer) battery upgrade is a must-have if you want to get the most out of your X-Maxx 8S. LiPo batteries have more power and capacity than NiMH batteries, which means they provide longer run times and higher speeds.

When choosing a LiPo battery upgrade for your X-Maxx 8S, look for one that has at least 4S (14.8V) or higher with a minimum capacity of 5000mAh or higher. You should also choose a battery with a high C-rating (C-rate), which measures the discharge rate of the battery.

It’s important to note that LiPo batteries require special care and handling. They can be dangerous if not handled properly, so make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to safely charge, store, and use them.

Conclusion

The powertrain upgrades discussed above are essential if you want to improve the performance and durability of your Traxxas X-Maxx 8S. A high-torque servo will give you better control over steering and throttle functions; a brushless motor will provide more power and speed; while a LiPo battery will offer longer run times and higher speeds. It’s important to choose upgrades that match your specific needs and preferences so that you can get the most out of your truck.

Body and Appearance Upgrades

LED Light Kit: Brighten Up Your Nighttime Runs

The Traxxas X-Maxx 8S is an impressive machine that can handle tough terrain and obstacles with ease. But what about when the sun goes down?

Enter the LED light kit. Not only do these lights look cool, they also serve an important function: illuminating your path in low-light conditions.

There are a variety of LED light kits available for the X-Maxx 8S, from basic sets that attach to the front and rear bumpers to more advanced options that include underbody lighting. Some kits even include a remote control so you can change the color and pattern of the lights on the fly.

ProGraphix Custom Body Wrap: Show Off Your Style

The X-Maxx 8S comes with a stock body that looks great, but sometimes you want to add your own personal touch. That’s where ProGraphix custom body wraps come in. These wraps are made from high-quality vinyl and can be customized with any design or image you can imagine.

Not only do these wraps look cool, they also serve a practical purpose: protecting your X-Maxx 8S from scratches and dings. The vinyl material is durable enough to withstand even the toughest terrain, so you don’t have to worry about damaging your investment.

Aluminum Shock Caps: Improve Performance and Durability

One of the most common upgrades for any RC vehicle is replacing plastic parts with stronger, more durable aluminum alternatives. The shock caps on the X-Maxx 8S are no exception. By swapping out the stock plastic caps for aluminum ones, you’ll improve both performance and durability.

Aluminum shock caps are lighter than their plastic counterparts, which means less weight on your suspension system and better handling overall. They’re also much stronger, which means they can withstand more abuse without breaking or cracking.

Conclusion: Choose the Right Upgrades for You

When it comes to body and appearance upgrades for your Traxxas X-Maxx 8S, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re looking to add some extra style with a custom body wrap, improve visibility with LED lights, or boost performance with aluminum shock caps, there’s an upgrade out there that’s perfect for your needs. Just remember: not all upgrades are created equal.

It’s important to do your research and choose upgrades that are high-quality, durable, and specifically designed for your X-Maxx 8S. With the right upgrades in place, you’ll be able to take on even the toughest terrain with confidence and style.

Miscellaneous Upgrades

Aside from the main upgrades discussed earlier, there are a few miscellaneous upgrades that can greatly improve the performance and durability of your Traxxas X-Maxx 8S. These upgrades are often overlooked but can make a big difference in the overall performance of your RC truck. Here are two of the best miscellaneous upgrades for your Traxxas X-Maxx 8S.

Heavy Duty Steering Linkage Set

The stock steering linkage on the Traxxas X-Maxx 8S is prone to wear and tear, especially if you use your RC truck frequently. A heavy-duty steering linkage set will help prevent this issue and greatly enhance the steering performance of your truck.

The upgraded metal parts in this set will provide added strength and durability to withstand extreme conditions while also enhancing precision control when navigating tight turns or obstacles. One popular option for a heavy-duty steering linkage set is offered by RPM.

This kit includes all necessary hardware and instructions to install a complete replacement for the stock linkage system. The kit is made of high-quality materials such as chrome steel ball studs, machined aluminum pivot balls, and injection-molded nylon components that are designed to handle serious abuse without failing.

To install it yourself, you’ll need some basic tools including pliers, hex drivers or ball end drivers (1/16”, 5/64”, 3/32”), needle nose pliers & side cutters or similar cutting tool. However, if you don’t feel comfortable installing it yourself, take it to a professional who can assist you in installation as well as run diagnostic tests before driving it again.

Aluminum Differential Housing Carrier

The differential housing carrier is one component that is often overlooked but plays a crucial role in the performance and durability of your Traxxas X-Maxx 8S. The differential housing carrier is responsible for supporting the differential assembly which is vital to your truck’s performance.

Upgrading to an aluminum differential housing carrier will add strength, rigidity, and precision to the assembly, which helps enhance overall performance and durability. It is also an excellent choice when running high-power motors or LiPo batteries as it can handle more torque without breaking.

One top brand that offers a quality aluminum differential housing carrier upgrade for Traxxas X-Maxx 8S is GPM Racing. This housing carrier component provides a more rigid structure than the stock plastic version and can withstand more serious off-road conditions.

It has been designed with precision CNC machining from high-quality aluminum material that will not only improve overall functionality but also give it a sleek finish so it looks great on your truck. Installing this upgrade may take some time since you’ll have to take apart many components before getting access to differential assembly, however there are ways in which you can make yourself comfortable with doing so by watching installation video tutorials available online or taking guidance from a professional who has installed these parts before.

Conclusion

The Traxxas X-Maxx 8S is an impressive machine that can be taken to new heights with the right upgrades. From the chassis to the powertrain and body, there are a variety of upgrades available that can improve performance and durability.

Summary of The Best Upgrades for Traxxas X-Maxx 8S

When it comes to upgrading your Traxxas X-Maxx 8S, there are several options available in various categories. Firstly, when it comes to the chassis upgrades, aluminum chassis brace set provides superior strength and rigidity while reducing flex on hard landings.

Furthermore, heavy-duty suspension arms enhance durability without sacrificing performance. If you want to improve powertrain performance, a high-torque servo is perfect for precise control at high speeds.

A brushless motor upgrade improves speed and acceleration while providing smoother operation compared to stock options. LiPo batteries offer better power capacity over standard battery types due to their higher voltage rating.

For body and appearance upgrades, an LED light kit enhances visibility during night driving sessions or low-light conditions. A ProGraphix custom body wrap provides eye-catching appeal while protecting against scratches or damage on rough terrain.

Aluminum shock caps add extra durability to absorb impacts from jumps or falls. Miscellaneous upgrades like heavy-duty steering linkage set ensures precise steering control at high speeds or tight turns while aluminum differential housing carrier adds extra strength where it’s needed most.

The Importance of Choosing The Right Upgrade For Your Specific Needs And Preferences

The importance of choosing the right upgrade for your specific needs cannot be overstated since every Traxxas X-Maxx owner has different preferences and requirements when it comes to performance. While some may prioritize speed and acceleration, others may want durability or improved control.

Therefore, it’s essential to consider these factors before investing in upgrades. Moreover, it’s recommended that you start with basic upgrades first before moving on to more advanced ones.

For instance, upgrading the chassis or suspension arms can be a good starting point for improving durability and performance. Once you have a solid foundation, you can move onto more complex upgrades like brushless motors or LiPo batteries.

It’s essential to choose upgrades from reputable manufacturers who specialize in Traxxas X-Maxx parts. This ensures that the upgrade fits perfectly and delivers optimal performance while not harming other components of your truck.

Upgrading your Traxxas X-Maxx 8S is the key to unlocking its full potential on the racetrack or off-road terrain. With so many options available for chassis, powertrain and body upgrades, there is something for every owner’s specific needs and preferences.