Traxxas X-Maxx | Hobbywing Max6 vs Max5 with 980kv motor

We recently put the 980kv motor from Trackstar in our Traxxas X-Maxx. Video link here: • Traxxas X-Maxx 980KV I...
This MONSTER motor was paired with the Hobbywing Max6 that had been in the vehicle for years, and an almost 1:1 gear ratio. It was obvious with a single trigger pull that this was a whole different truck...but it didn't last. The Max6 just couldn't supply enough power for that 980kv motor. It would pull hard for a short distance, then glitch out and cut power.
Enter the Hobbywing Max5!
I was able to find a used, Leopard Hobby branded version of it and so went for it!
Wow! Such a difference. It has GOBS of power now, and just pulls hard.
Honestly, it is hard to get to full throttle. I am going to have to find a big football field or something to really test it out!
Want an X-Maxx - get one here: amzn.to/374Gnkq
Hobbywing Max5 ESC: amzn.to/3k0tX0O
Hobbystar 980kv motor: amzn.to/2SWPNWV
Motor mount: rover.ebay.com...
Max5 ESC plate for mounting: rover.ebay.com...
Pro-Line Badlands MX4.3 Tires: amzn.to/3lSwavT
RCMANIACS Unbreakable body: rover.ebay.com...
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Music provided by T2NATE - go check out his other work: / @t2nate137

[@LargeeeScaleLife]

Well look at the bright side you’ll never have to replace front tires

[@RoadsideRC]

Ha! Only wear out 2 at a time!

[@metoo3918]

I didnt see or hear if the diffs/outdrives/etc. were still stock, but with that much torque on-hands, something is gonna snap if the rest of the drive train is stock.

[@RoadsideRC]

Yep - all stock 8S parts. Honestly, the driveline has stood up quite well.

[@nathanielgacutan4336]

The max 5 is great for lower kv motor but on higher kv motor it limits. You guys can read it on hw web.

[@RoadsideRC]

Yes - you are correct!

[@nathanielgacutan4336]

Thanks! BTW I learn it from kev.

[@g.b-MTB-trail-jumps3062]

Great vid bro 👑 Awesome upgrade...sick x max💪💪💪 Nice jumps Kip it up dude

[@RoadsideRC]

Thanks! Will do!

[@RichB07]

What pinion and spur do you run ? And motor mount ? i think i have to order a mount still . i have mod 1.5 pinion 25 and 35 spur for it . Not sure on any of it . mine is 1100kv

[@RoadsideRC]

That pinion and spur should work great. Mine was closer to1:1 ratio and it is just too much. The motor mount I used might not be available anymore. This one looks promising: www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=el&merchant_id=4b85b2b7-558e-4304-89fc-54958c8f47f0&website_id=caf4cba5-8e5f-43be-93b7-934f1a36d50d&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amainhobbies.com%2Fbowhouse-rc-xmaxx-svt-big-bore-motor-mount-black-bwh-bxm-0010%2Fp1353166%23tab-feedback Or this one: www.ebay.com/itm/285131897295?hash=item42632f79cf:g:bTsAAOSw3qFj3HMk&amdata=enc%3AAQAHAAAA4G7Lw3pgQEKAsQgKCAudLlgJreaJBACfx1dIegKo%2Bg%2B78GXJ7bEqmc74sRlNt6Xn%2F%2Fyvr9QHWdzWZyxRMg0NsY486PyGPDlM9kNDA5hH5NWt0SqiliTNyAE3QqlfD04M2skskttyDyNYro9J5IPGl%2BdJ8IJcSntO46t6s25mBJrLSBfrojuYqxZOO4gsaSEYSP78XgvW073iUqng6oHoUIeV%2B2BknAp7HBBjYV4duM6R7mgdxCftlexJOKmkClA6Yn5K6IEp4arGzDb2prE2qz%2FMgv2evn%2BrTRptU8r%2Fwkim%7Ctkp%3ABFBM0qGz-eNh&mkcid=1&mkrid=711-53200-19255-0&siteid=0&campid=5338469288&toolid=11800&mkevt=1

[@teamrcquebec7971]

Very nice upgrade, i did tje same when my vxl8s died.

[@RoadsideRC]

Thanks! I should have - but went with the Max6 for a long time first.

[@zachowns1023]

I really need to change my stock esc and motor dang this is nuts!

[@RoadsideRC]

It really is crazy. I never thought I would need to change from the factory stuff....but wow. It is insane.

[@Hirthirthirt]

"maaaan, you think the Max 6 is big....?" No, I don't, it is smaller than a Revo 6S-ESC......and lighter

[@RoadsideRC]

You sure about that? This was originally a 6S truck with the VXL-6S in it. ESC fried quickly. I remember it had a decent sized footprint, but wasn't very powerful.

[@Hirthirthirt]

@@RoadsideRC the original VXL-ESC is ginormous, Sir....it is heavy as well......and once we overgeared the truck it was toast.....the Max 6 did cut off but worked again after a cooling period. I wonder if a Max 5 fits without dremeling when I take the reling / plastic-bars off, put the ESC in and then put the bars back.

[@cutter8355]

Can I have a parts list of everything I would need to do this to my x maxx

[@RoadsideRC]

The full parts list is in the video description.

[@bansheebandithot350]

Rapid 😎😎👍🏻👍🏻🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧

[@RoadsideRC]

Thanks!

[@crawlingnationrc4233]

Wow wow 😀😀😀

[@RoadsideRC]

Thank you!

[@averagejoe9002]

What were temps like? Awesome video btw!

[@RoadsideRC]

This motor setup has never run warm. It is crazy.

[@GreatLakesRC]

Heck yeah man! Tons of power 💪💪

[@RoadsideRC]

Crazy power!

[@rickroberts7611]

Ordered a max 6 and leaving the stick motor in for now..Anyone else done it? How is it? worth it?

[@RoadsideRC]

Works well. You might feel a little difference in how the power is delivered, but it was not a large change for me personally.

[@rickroberts7611]

@@RoadsideRC Cool thanks dude🤙

[@cutter8355]

Would I be able to run the traxxas 8s battery setup

[@RoadsideRC]

I would not suggest using Traxxas batteries. There are better quality batteries for less price.

[@islandrc-duke1972]

Wow,awesome upgrade

[@RoadsideRC]

Thank you - it is CRAZY!

[@charlesb7831]

I just want to replace my stock speed control with Max 6 . I have a 1st generation Xmaxx with the original speed control (with a couple mods). And stock motor. No it hasn't caught fire yet lol.

[@RoadsideRC]

Ha! My stock speed control didn't last very long. :) I did exactly like you - I didn't want the crazy motor, so I went with the Max6. However, eventually the motor fried. Nothing lasts forever. When I was looking to replace it, it seemed silly to purchase a brand new Traxxas motor, when the aftermarket motor and mount was cheaper - and provided more power. I could have saved money by going Max5 in the first place. Your choice!

[@russellhall784]

And what engine is it.

[@RoadsideRC]

980kv Trackstar. I believe there is a link in the description.

[@philwebb606]

Where did you get the ESC plate?

[@RoadsideRC]

I found it on eBay. You can see the full install here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnWch5V4g5d9rpo Honestly, this plate works....but it required A LOT of grinding and modification before it finally fit. Even now, I find there are still some areas on it I want to grind down for more clearance. I recently saw a person who was using one of these, and I wonder if it would long-term be a better solution. Only problem, is the price. rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?ff3=4&toolid=11800&pub=5575476760&campid=5338469288&mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com%2Fitm%2FTraxxas-X-Maxx-Alloy-Chassis-Top-Brace-with-ESC-Mount-Plate-TRX-7714X%2F254194380188%3Fhash%3Ditem3b2f2a6d9c%3Ag%3AlQEAAOSwijtcR37n

[@philwebb606]

@@RoadsideRC not at that price, the part you have looks good, stick with it and save a few $$

[@Geo62]

you run with tsm for back flip ? it's dangerous :D

[@RoadsideRC]

I don't think I have TSM turned on the truck any more. Pretty sure that is just floppy steering/servo saver.

[@billyb5057]

looks a good upgrade bigger and better too look at it go its a real beast now *you got our like👍Au👍always fully viewing*

[@RoadsideRC]

It is crazy now! Thanks for the support Billy!

[@SpeedSyko]

A 6s outcast that won’t break every run! Can’t beat an XMAXX!!!!! Great video! Mines on the bench just got the motor and esc fitted. Hopefully she runs as good as yours! Max 5 800kv 9000mah 100c graphine batteries. B&m set up a few different gearing options. I see a rear diff in the future, lol awesome video!

[@RoadsideRC]

Sounds like a great combo you have! I am a little worried about the diffs with this power. Hopefully they hold.

[@SpeedSyko]

Oh no, those diffs will be short lived. For sure! I hope I can get away with expensive rear? We will see? Yours is runnin great!

[@RoadsideRC]

Which diff gears do you plan to go with?

[@SpeedSyko]

Roadside RC I forgot the brand, there about 380$ and lifetime warranty. Getting them from a hobby shop by me. When I order them I’ll let you know the brand.

[@1micYT]

I’m about to put this esc in a 6s Kraton. Going to be crazy.

[@RoadsideRC]

Yes, that does sound wicked! I'll be curious how the diff gears hold up.

[@BIGGBULLxxx]

Troy ....man I like that esc and motor setup it sounds good. I like a brushless system that sounds like a jet. What pinion and spur gear you got in it? Thanks

[@RoadsideRC]

Agree 100% I love it when the truck just sounds nasty. In this install video, I have a link to both pinion and spur. kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnWch5V4g5d9rpo

[@YaBoiFetz]

Hey did you get problems with the rear diff?

[@RoadsideRC]

Occasionally, but nothing frequently.

[@YaBoiFetz]

@@RoadsideRC I switched to the heavy duty Diff stuff but even those break regularly. The Max 5 and the 980kv motor are just a tick too much I think 😁

[@RoadsideRC]

@@YaBoiFetz You might have other issues. Bad bearings, needing shims, etc. The 8S gears are rather strong, and shouldn't break frequently.

[@YaBoiFetz]

@@RoadsideRC it's completely upgraded. The Diffs are perfectly shimmed

[@Mad9977]

pretty cool ✌️😎👍

[@RoadsideRC]

Thank you! I am very happy with it!

[@onemansvideos2134]

What i really recommend is getting the max5 lower in the chassis so when you land on the roof it's safe

[@RoadsideRC]

That is the one thing I don't like about this whole setup. Really puts the ESC at risk.

[@joseCalderon1976]

@@RoadsideRC check out WFO and their esc plate and receiver box and switch for the max 5 esc. It puts the ESC way lower and the stuff bolts on to the chassis. The max 5 bolts to the plate with some 5mm bolts that you can supply. That's what I did. It came out great. I'll find a video about it. No need to have your esc suspended in the air like that!

[@joseCalderon1976]

@@RoadsideRC check out this video about the WFO esc plate plate. I removed the center chassis brace for easier installation : kzbin.info/www/bejne/fnysppqwg9ySqdk

[@RoadsideRC]

@@joseCalderon1976 Thanks!

[@onemansvideos2134]

I made my own wfo design for the esc plate out of a piece of plexiglass just seemed easier for me cause I like making stuff...but yes wfos plate is the way to go for max5 installation in the xmaxx

[@lexhtfdct7230]

Do you need the programming for it or is it plug and play

[@RoadsideRC]

I just plugged it in. Nothing more than any normal new ESC install.

[@onemansvideos2134]

Its crazy what 20 more amps does huh plus that esc is more for that motor

[@RoadsideRC]

Yes! 20amps doesn't seem like a lot, but matching the motor helps the most.

[@Hirthirthirt]

What do you think about that combo? Too extrem? I would like to do that with the belt-drive-system

[@RoadsideRC]

It is quite wild. I would recommend a slightly milder gear ratio.

[@Hirthirthirt]

@@RoadsideRC and 1100kv rather?

[@maxoutrc8823]

Great vid that thing has some big balls 👍

[@RoadsideRC]

The power is CRAZY in this truck now.

[@jdpaslRC]

Your front yard looks very nice! LOL

[@RoadsideRC]

It USED TO before this truck tore it up!

[@jdpaslRC]

@@RoadsideRC LOL

[@russellhall784]

What steering servo do you use, with that set up

[@RoadsideRC]

I am running the stock servo.

[@raulmartinezmartin9240]

Yeah dude!! That thing is awesome. Why did you change max5 for max6? My English level is not the best and I couldn't understand you. Thank a lot. Nice videos on your channel.

[@RoadsideRC]

The Max6 can not power correctly the 980kv motor. At full throttle, it would lose power and shut off. The Max5 has more power to handle the motor.

[@raulmartinezmartin9240]

@@RoadsideRC thanks!!

[@raulmartinezmartin9240]

@@RoadsideRC Would you recommend me to go directly for Max5 in case I also update the engine in the future?

[@RoadsideRC]

Yes!!!

[@FataL-Gr]

I burned 2 max6 with 1100kv 25/35 ... now with max5 im more than fine😊 Keep up with your awesome videos mate!

[@RoadsideRC]

Thank you! Glad to hear it works better with the Max5. I am very happy so far.

[@fast79z28camaro]

Do you notice much more power with 1100/max 5 vs max 6? Or can you pull a much taller gear safely with max 5? I have a max 6/1100 setup and it rips, but I wouldn't hate keeping more headapace for cooling/maybe gearing higher

[@FataL-Gr]

@@fast79z28camaro I can't say for sure if i feel more power, but for sure I feel safer😁 In the end it wasn't my fault...I was just unlucky cause I heard some max6 were problematic and I must have baught 2 of them

[@maximumrpm1868]

That was epic awesome and everything in between

[@RoadsideRC]

Ha! Thanks!

[@maximumrpm1868]

@@RoadsideRC 😂

[@LittleTimmyPool]

Good stuff man! #subbed

[@RoadsideRC]

Thank you!

[@RichD]

I can hear your lawn cry!

[@RoadsideRC]

Ha! Yes...

[@RCVOODOO]

Very cool 😎

[@RoadsideRC]

Thank you!

[@lexhtfdct7230]

What pinion and spur gear do you have and whats your top speed

[@RoadsideRC]

I don't remember the exact gearing - that is in another video where I installed the motor the first time. It is almost a 1-1 ratio. We recently tested it, and it ran around 65mph.

[@lexhtfdct7230]

That's good enough for me , if u can find those specs , I would gladly appreciate it , im trying to make a strong running rc with good power with acceleration

[@kennyprime6480]

Love it bro💪💪💪

[@RoadsideRC]

Thank you!

[@sfnomad2337]

Dude that’s awesome!

[@RoadsideRC]

Thanks! It is borderline scary. SOO MUCH POWER. I need to get this truck out in a big field.

[@sfnomad2337]

@@RoadsideRC I can see that. I’m curious what gearing you’re using? Any heat issues?

[@RoadsideRC]

@@sfnomad2337 The gearing is basically a 1:1 setup. I have links in the video where I put the 980kv motor in. So far, no issues with heat, but it has not been run hard for a whole battery either.

[@sfnomad2337]

@@RoadsideRC great info. Thanks!!