Tuesday, November 21, 2017

TRAXXAS STAMPEDE 2WD BRUSHLESS

                               Traxxas Stampede 2WD Brushless RC Truck - Overview


INTRODUCTION

Traxxas 
Traxxas refers to their brand as the fastest name in radio control !  If you have been in involved in the RC hobby for awhile you most certainly have heard the name Traxxas.
For over 30 years their innovative approach to designing high-quality RC models and accessories has certainly paid off as the renowned name company has become a favorite for many RC enthusiasts.
With over 50 models in their lineup including RC boats, cars, trucks, and quadcopters, a wide array of choices are available for those beginning their quest in RC as well as those who have been involved in the hobby for an extended period of time.
Parts and accessories are readily available for all the models they design and manufacture.
To back it all up a friendly, knowledgeable customer support team is ready to address any concerns or deal with any problems you may encounter.  
Inside U.S. 1-888-872-9927  Outside U.S. 972-549-3000
I have personally dealt with them myself and they have always met or exceeded my expectations.

KEY FEATURES

Traxxas Stampede 2WD Brushless Truck
traxxas stampede 2wd brushless
Traxxas Stampede 2WD Brushless RC Monster Truck
Brushless Power - the electric power on board the Traxxas Stampede 2WD Monster Truck is efficient and plenty capable of delivering an amazing amount of horsepower.
The Velineon 3500 brushless motor teamed up with the VXL-3s electronic speed control were designed to provide smooth starts, with precise control.
The brushless motor is equipped with high temperature Neodymium magnets, balanced rotor and high speed ball bearings.
The motor being brushless and without any internal parts wear, was engineered to bring consistent power and performance.
VXL 3s ESC (Electronic Speed Control) -features forward and reverse plus 3 driving profiles to choose from.
Training, Sport, and Race modes offer a unique feature, especially for beginners who may have never driven an RC model before. In Training mode the throttle can be cut up to 50% to enable drivers to enhance and obtain driving skills before releasing the full power of the VXL Brushless system.
 Drivetrain - A revo spec- adjustable slipper clutch was designed to handle the power from the Traxxas Stampede 2WD Brushless system. It is responsible for delivering smooth and consistent power to the ground.
The VXL's Magnum 272 transmission includes all metal gears on sealed ball bearings, standard 48 pitch gears deliver power to telescoping u-joint driveshafts.
The gearbox is sealed and protects the components from the elements, including dirt and rocks.
Other components include metal turnbuckles, with heavy duty rod ends, and hex hardware.
On all 4 corners of the chassis are white powder coated oil filled shocks, that can be tuned with a variety of oils, pistons, and springs.
You can adjust ride height and spring pre-load, the shocks can be rebuilt or upgraded with inexpensive  ready available parts and kits.
Chassis -the chassis is molded from high quality nylon composites with an adequate amount of ground clearance.
For a high-tech appearance many parts including the chassis, transmission cover, and shock bodies are molded in gray.
On the rear of the model an adjustable wheelie bar is pre-installed.
video


Advanced TQi Radio System - precise control for the Traxxas Stampede 2WD monster truck is achieved with the advanced technology provided by the TQi transmitter.
The transmitter is designed to feel comfortable in your hand, the TQi radio includes electronic trim control, battery indicator, and precise adjustments for throttle and steering control.
A high torque steering servo is included on the model along with a compact receiver, delivering a range for up to a quarter mile.
Steering sensitivity, throttle trim, and braking percentage can be programmed and saved within the system.
Up to 30 Traxxas linked-enabled models can be saved with the advanced TQi radio system.

ADVANTAGES
TRAXXAS STAMPEDE 2WD
Brushless power - can deliver speeds beyond 65 mph w/ 3s 20c 11.1V 8000+ mAh LiPo battery
Good Power - can pull off wheelies on command
Good handling characteristics despite it's high CG ( Center of Gravity)
Handles jumps relatively well
Durable and can withstand some punishment
Readily available upgrades

DISADVANTAGES
Comes with a car charger - disappointing to some consumers

My Final Thoughts
The Traxxas Stampede 2WD Brushless RC Truck has its strong points. Is it without its downsides ?
Definitely not !  With its brushless power plant it is capable of delivering some serious power and speed with the proper battery and gear setup. TSM ( Traxxas Stability Management)   assists with the handling.
To achieve the speeds you may desire, a battery upgrade will more than likely need to be made.
For more information on the model visit our website airarmorrc.com

Monday, November 20, 2017

GENS ACE

                                   Gens ACE RC Batteries-Overview


INTRODUCTION

The Company
Gens ACE Facility

A leader in the RC and industrial community for their innovation and design of premium quality rechargeable batteries, with a commitment for producing reliable, high performance, rechargeable batteries for consumers around the world.
Using advanced technology, quality control, and competitive pricing, Gens ACE has grown into a front runner in the industry.
They manufacture a variety of NiMH (Nickel Metal Hydride) and LiPo ( Lithium Polymer) rc batteries that are safe, lightweight, with higher energy density, and an extended cycle life.
The Gens ACE manufacturing facility consists of 30,000 square meters, housing the manufacturing equipment and 3000 employees, 200 of which are technicians and engineers with 20 years of battery technology experience.

PRODUCTS
gens ace
Gens ACE LiPo Battery with Deans Plug
LiPo ( Lithium Polymer) Batteries for RC Cars- The company provides LiPo batteries for on and off road vehicles including, Monster Trucks, Crawlers, EBuggy and ETruggy ( 1/8 to 1/10 scale).
They offer a Traxxas battery as well as a ROAR approved battery, and a Gens ACE shorty pack.
Other LiPo Batteries available:
RC Heli & Airplane Battery
Drone Batteries
FPV Batteries
RX / TX Battery
Advantages of Gen ACE Lithium Polymer Battery-
The Ora cover they use to seal and pack the batteries can withstand temperatures up to 250 degrees centigrade enabling the batteries to stick.All the batteries are manufactured under strict and precise quality control . The batteries have low resistance, with high discharge rate, they are lightweight, and proven performance.

NiMH Batteries-(Nickel Metal Hydride) 
Gen ACE provides NiMH batteries for
Gens ACE NiMH Battery with Tamiya Plug
RC Cars
Robot Vacuums
This particular battery fits popular 7.2V RC Cars, Truggys, Monster Trucks, and RC Buggy, on brand name models like Associated, Traxxas, Losi, HPI, Kyosho, and Tamiya.

Advantages of Gen ACE NiMH battery - they have an extended or long cycle life, with great discharging characteristics.
They are reliable, efficient, and environmentally friendly, lightweight with good performance.
More information can be found on their website
http://www.gensace.de/
video

This is just a view of a few of the battery upgrades or options available from Gens Ace.
For more information on the many models that can be upgraded to Gens ACE batteries visit our website airarmorrc.com

Friday, November 17, 2017

RPM RC PRODUCTS

                                         RPM RC Products Overview      


INTRODUCTION

RPM the Company
rpm rc products
RPM Manufacturing Facility

The company was started back in the mid seventies, 1974 to be exact, initially the company was geared toward the medical and commercial industries.
RPM entered the RC industry back in the mid 80's, the high quality precision plastic molded parts back then are still manufactured with the same quality today.
Their manufacturing facility is located in Chino California which compiles as a complete in house facility where all of there products are produced and distributed.
Quality control at RPM is extremely important, having the ability to design, produce, and distribute their own products gives them an edge on one hand, and in turn consumers get good quality products for their RC models.
RPM entered the RC industry to improve the durability, performance, and quality of RC products using over 60 yrs of mold and injection making experience to achieve their goal.
They realized that many consumers were dealing with the frustration of broken RC parts, and set out to create and design solutions for the problems at affordable prices.
RPM RC Products not only look good but are guaranteed not to break, customer suggestions and concerns are welcome, and the design team strives to design and produce a solution.
RPM works with distributors across the U.S. and around the world,  making their parts availability simple and easy for RC enthusiasts to get there hands on.
RPM products are stocked in house and are rarely back ordered.


Name Brand RC Vehicles
Traxxas Stampede 2WD RC Truck 

RPM RC Products and upgrades are available for an extremely wide array of name brand RC Vehicles, including
Arrma,
Associated,
Axial,
Dromida,
Latrax,
Losi, and
Traxxas to name a few.



PRODUCTS
rpm rc products
Arrma Kraton RPM Front Bumper

Numerous RPM Products include
A Arms,
Body mounts,
Bumpers,
Bearing carriers,
Chassis Components,
Rod ends,
Skid Plates,
Suspension parts,
Transmission and Transmission accessories,
Wing mounts,
and Wheels, this is just a portion of what is available. Nothing short of amazing, almost any upgrade you can think of is available. http://www.rpmrcproducts.com/
RPM Upgrades on Traxxas Rustler Chassis




Comments from Consumers
Like the fact that RPM does include research and design in their products, they go the extra mile and add suspension adjustability, fix common failures on high stress parts, adding protection for high priced RC vehicles.
I enjoy the fact that I can buy affordable, high quality, American made products for my RC car.
What I like about RPM products is the amount of abuse they can take without failing, ever so often you may have a part fail, that's when the RPM customer support team steps up to take care of you.
The only aftermarket parts that are extremely durable, even more so than aluminum.
If your searching for affordable upgrade parts for your Traxxas, Associated, Losi, or other name brand RC vehicle, then RPM RC Products is your go to, one stop shop.



My Final Thoughts 
If you have been around the RC hobby for a while, more than likely you have heard of the renowned RPM RC parts company, if not now you know where to go for any and all of your upgrades and you'll be amazed at the affordable prices.
Our name brand models at airarmorrc.com can easily be upgraded with RPM RC Products, visit our website today. We offer FREE SHIPPING on all orders within the Continental U.S.

Wednesday, November 15, 2017

TRAXXAS STAMPEDE VXL 4X4

                                    Traxxas Stampede VXL 4x4 Overview


INTRODUCTION

Traxxas
The innovative approach to RC vehicle design has payed off again at Traxxas, the Traxxas Stampede VXL 4x4 was named Truck of the year some time back by RC car action magazine.
Traxxas began its quest in 1986 and has grown to become a renowned leader in the RC industry.
Traxxas models come fully assembled and ready to run within minutes out of the box.
At Traxxas designing and turning out high performance Monster Trucks is serious business, by taking extreme power and turning it into thrilling RC monster fun.
The Traxxas lineup includes over 50 models including RC boats, cars, quadcopters, and trucks, all backed by a friendly customer support team, including all the parts and accessories to keep you up and running for years to come.
One of the latest innovations has been an addition of self righting monster trucks, one thing is for sure, the wheels of innovation never stop spinning at Traxxas.

KEY FEATURES
Traxxas Stampede VXL 4x4

traxxas stampede vxl 4x4
Traxxas Stampede VXL 4x4 RC Monster Truck

Brushless Power - the vileneon power system on board the Traxxas Stampede VXL  is capable of producing speeds beyond 60mph.
This Truck really moves with the brushless power, once you charge and install the battery and pull the trigger on the remote, you will see what I mean.
The size of the truck can be deceiving, you wouldn't expect the speed and that you get.
Along with the speed is an adequate amount of power to overcome some of the roughest terrain placed in its path.
Pulling off wheelies is easy with this monster, sure to bring a smile to your face.
Even with the tremendous amount of power the Traxxas Stampede VXL has, the steering and handling characteristics are good, point the wheels in the direction you intend to travel and the Stampede will get you there.
While jumping, the Monster Truck really handles well, forward and backward flips are all initiated on demand and landings are precise for an experienced driver.
With Traxxas Stability Management (TSM) included on the model, the handling is definitely enhanced.
Chassis Design - some have mixed feelings about the ride height of the body of the truck, with the body sitting higher than the chassis, you can see clear all the way through to the other side. It doesn't really effect the performance as much as it does the look.
The modular design and shaft driven 4WD system deliver and enhance performance, the electronics and battery components are integrated into the chassis layout.
Traxxas Stampede VXL 4x4 Shock Assembly
Ground clearance on the Traxxas Stampede VXL 4x4 is huge and beneficial for extremely rugged terrain.
The shocks are adjustable and oil filled, with white powder coated springs.
Drivetrain - the durable center driveshaft is made of aluminum, the extended shaft is hollow and lightweight with internal splines that fit directly to the output shaft on the fore and aft drive assemblies.
To protect the shaft from debris and dirt a clear cover was utilized.
3 gear meshes are utilized to drive all 4 wheels, with Revo Spec sealed, silicone filled differentials, and efficient rubber sealed ball bearings are also included on the model.
Sealed Electronics - if you encounter wet environments from time to time. the sealed electronics certainly can ease your mind a bit.
Sometimes unavoidable puddles pop up, going thru them is one thing, submerging the Traxxas Stampede  4x4 is another, the model is not designed for such cases and may require some time to get all the components clean and dry at the end of the day.
The steering servo, receiver box, and electronic speed control are and have been sealed from the elements.
video


TQi Advanced Radio System -with the Traxxas TQi radio controller there are no channels to manage, a number of tuning features can be used to optimize the performance of the Traxxas Stampede VXL 4x4.
The TQi can recognize and recall settings on up to 30 Traxxas enabled Link models, to operate simply turn on the system and go, no naming or settings need to be input into the system.
With the TQi radio you can precisely set and optimize settings in order to enhance the performance of the vehicle, including steering and throttle sensitivity that can be programmed with the multi function knob, you can also adjust braking and steering percentages for you own personal driving style.

ADVANTAGES
Fast with good acceleration / Brushless Power
Durable and can take some punishment
Wheelies on command / wheelie bar included
Great for jumping and performing flips
Sealed Electronics if you choose to encounter wet environments
Readily available parts and upgrades

DISADVANTAGES
Fairly Expensive
Tires aren't real grippy off road / Plenty of tire upgrades available though

Consumer Comments
Great Basher when running a good quality 2s LiPo, over the stock battery. Recommend upgrading A-arms and bumper with RPM or tbone, both make good products.
Good all around RC Truck for anyone who is looking to do some bashing or serious jumping, will need upgrades if you plan to run on 2 or 3s.
The Traxxas Stampede 4x4 rocks !  and it can take a beating.
Happy as I can be, amazing Ready to Run right out of the box, strap in a 2s LiPo and hang on.

Final Thoughts
The Stampede VXL 4x4 from Traxxas has some great qualities for a Monster Truck, it does have some weak points especially with the power and speed from 3s LiPo, plan on making some upgrades if your looking for more speed and power. Overall it has been a great performer for many.
For more information on the Traxxas Stampede VXL 4x4 visit our website airarmorrc.com



Monday, November 13, 2017

ARRMA KRATON

                                              Arrma Kraton Overview

INTRODUCTION

Arrma 
In the realm of Arrma RC vehicles, the Brand strives to deliver the ultimate RC experience, that hopefully transforms the way RC enthusiasts choose to have fun.
The lineup of Arrma RC vehicles define high speed, with the durability to withstand the punishment of ultra-tough RC action.
Arrma's  wide variety of thrilling RC vehicles provide an opportunity for you to experience the thrill of dirt slinging off road driving, obtain new skills, and inspire others to join in on the fun.
Whether your a beginner or a experienced RC fan,  Arrma offers the models and accessories you need to meet the challenges you seek to achieve.
Arrma products are designed for speed and durability.
The models are designed from the bottom up by experienced personnel who understand the importance of performance, speed, durability, and reliability.
Arrma models are of premium quality, their stylish buggies, trucks and powerful all-terrain models come pre- assembled and Ready to Run within minutes out of the box.

KEY FEATURES


arrma kraton
Armma Kraton  Airborne
Arrma Kraton 
Brushless Power - On board the monster truck is the brushless 1/8 scale motor that maintains a 2050 kv rating, capable of providing incredible speed and efficient power control. The motor is equipped with 4mm bullet connectors.
An aluminum motor mount is used to secure the motor.
An aluminum heat sink surrounds the motor to dissipate the heat.
The Brushless system can handle up to 6s LiPo for amazing speed and power, for dirt slinging RC action with superb jumping potential.
Extremely fun to drive on 4s and insane on 6s.

Chassis - The chassis plate is 3mm thick, and is hard anodized black aluminum, designed for the speed and durability required for the Arrma Kraton.
Composite Chassis braces are included for support and strength.
Drivetrain - The handling on the model is impressive. The steel shaft driven 4WD is built for heavy duty off-road action.
The gear differential is oil-filled with metal shielded bearings.
The durable Steering cranks and aluminum drag link plate are key components for the Kraton's handling characteristics. A couple of noticeable components, bronze bushings are used to support the cranks, and the steering arm is made of aluminum. Note: the toe is adjustable.
The steel spur gear is a must when handling the power from 6s.

Arrma Kraton Chassis
Suspension - the suspension type on the Arrma Kraton is A-Arm, there are a number of arm and tower locations for shock positioning.
The wheelbase and camber are also adjustable, with multiple link locations to handle roll.
Ride height is adjustable with preload collars.
Note: The suspension mounts take a beating from hard off road bashing, if you intend to push the limits you might consider upgrading to an aluminum block for extra durability.
Red aluminum 5mm thick shocks with black aluminum caps absorb the terrain really well, and include threaded preload spring collars.
The oil-filled shocks and spring combination are great when landing after launching off some incredible jumps, the shocks are held in place with pins and fastened with set screws.
Waterproof Electronics - A waterproof box houses the 2.4GHz ARX -100 receiver, to protect the unit from the elements and extreme conditions a specially designed gasket has been utilized.
Other sealed components include the electronic speed control and steering servo.
The electronics on board the model are ready for the elements if and when you choose to encounter them.
video


ADVANTAGES
Plenty of Power and Speed with Brushless motor
Handles and Turns extremely well
Can take some abuse from extreme off-road driving
Great for jumping, gets some serious air and distance from the Arrma Kraton
Easy to maintain, easy access to differentials
Readily available upgrades should you choose to do so

DISADVANTAGES
At times throttle response not relatively as smooth as one would like
Expensive , you will have to reach a little deeper in your pocket for this beast

Comments from Consumers

Powerhouse best describes this RC vehicle, easy to maintain and work on. You won't be disappointed.

What a beast,  I love it.

This monster truggy is a blast to drive, won't be disappointed, running 6s on it now.

Recommend buying a set of sealed bearings, had one disinegrate, beyond the bearing issue the vehicle is fast, rugged and awesome on 4 or 6s.

This thing is awesome, recommend to anyone who knows what a bad ass RC is capable of.

Final Thoughts
If you have done any research on the Arrma Kraton you will quickly see, that this thing is a top performer in any serious RC drivers arsenal.  Super fast on 6s, amazing air and hang time over the jumps. Built to take some punishment.
For more information on this model visit our website airarmorrc.com






Wednesday, November 8, 2017

TRAXXAS LINK

                                              Traxxas Link Overview

INTRODUCTION

Traxxas Link by Traxxas
traxxas link
Traxxas Link Module

At Traxxas an innovative approach is utilized to design their feature packed vehicles and TQi Radio systems, to deliver the latest that advanced technology has to offer.
The App is designed to connect wirelessly  with the TQi radio control system for an easy to use advanced radio control system.
Traxxas Link and TQi link up to monitor a models performance in real-time with optional telemetry sensors.
The Traxxas Link App for your android or apple device is available on Google Play and the App store.
You can expand your driving experience into all new territory, with the most advanced Ready to Race Radio control system available to date.

Traxxas Link App Interface
FEATURES
Traxxas Link App 
Connect Wirelessly to your Transmitter - no buttons or menu's to navigate, when your connected via bluetooth, you have easy access to all the radio system features.
Training Mode - have a friend or family member who has never driven before ?
Simply switch the system to training mode and the power is cut in half, allowing inexperienced drivers to take control.
Fine Tune your model - the multi function knob on the TQi can be programmed for a variety of functions, you can control your throttle or steering sensitivity on the go.
Change Radio System Settings - with the advanced TQi radio system you can make a variety of adjustments with the tuning features, using the HD interface on your mobile device you can select and save your personal settings instantly.
Features include precise tuning of your steering rate, braking percentage, servo end points, and even reverse the servo direction.
Store and Manage Vehicle Settings - with this feature you can store up to 30 models and your personal settings are brought up automatically when you power up your transmitter and model.
No need to select or find the vehicle you choose to drive.
View Speed Data - if you purchase and install the optional GPS speed module into the telemetry expander the Traxxas Link App reads and recognizes the GPS data and delivers the speed results.
The data will not be affected by tire spin or gear ratio.
View Telemetry in Real-Time - the data is delivered wirelessly to your mobile device, while you focus on controlling your model. A co-driver or friend can keep you informed on things like temperatures, battery voltage, and speed in real-time.
Adjustments and tuning can be initiated on the fly, if you happen to be driving alone, the telemetry can be recorded by the app for later viewing.
Record Drag Racing Results - If you combine the link with the Traxxas DTS-1 (Drag Timing System) you can run drag racing sessions.
You will have the ability to start races, view the run times, and share digital time slips, all from the Traxxas Link.
video



Comments from Consumers
Great addition for your Traxxas model, setup was simple, the process was straight forward and took less than 5 min. to complete. I use the module to turn on the Training Mode for my 5 yr old son, although i plan to eventually install telemetry sensors.

Would be great if I could access drive effects without the Traxxas App crashing. I can access other areas just fine, its the drive effects page that is giving me problems.

Simple install into the TQi remote controller, I was able to connect instantly and see all of my sensors, Very Cool.

Plugged in and linked up without any issues, it did update firmware once I was connected, haven't had any problems, although I don't have any telemetry sensors, it does recognize the vehicle i am  driving, and allows me to tune and adjust my settings.

Final Thoughts
The Traxxas Link app may not be beneficial to every RC driver, but to those who take the racing action seriously the App and module provide numerous features that can give you an edge over the competition.
For more information on the Traxxas Link Module visit our website airarmorrc.com







Tuesday, November 7, 2017

ONYX 245 DUAL CHARGER

                                      Onyx 245 Dual Charger Overview

Introduction

Onyx by Duratrax
When it comes to chargers some want the basics, some prefer all the bells and whistles, while everyone enjoys getting the best bang for the buck.
Taking all these things into consideration from the start, Onyx chargers have become the top selling chargers among RC enthusiasts.
Whether your looking for a charger that can just handle LiPos, NiCds, or NiMHs, Onyx has you covered with 10 different chargers ranging from single output models to a dual output model designed for the ultimate in battery charging.
Each charger has unique capabilities, but all are designed to provide convenience at an affordable price.
The designs from Onyx are lightweight and compact for convenient transport in the field or at the track, with either AC or DC capablity.
The controls and menu's are simple, straightforward, and easy to navigate. The chargers also include visual and audible alerts and warnings to keep you informed.

Onyx 245 Dual Charger
onyx 245 dual charger
Onyx 245 Dual Charger

This AC / DC dual balancing charger has simple, user friendly setup features, with more than adequate charging versatility.
The charging unit features 2 identical output ports making the onyx 245 a great choice for models that require more than 1 battery pack.
The Onyx Dual Charger is virtually 2 chargers in 1, the charger has a built in balancer for each port, great for optimal charging of lithium packs, including LiFe and LiPo cells such as LifeSource packs.
The unit is capable of charging 2 batteries of different chemistries at the same time.
Both outputs feature built in balancing for up to 3s LiPo, and Li-Ion/ LiFe batteries such as Life Source packs, plus a radio battery charge jack that has been integrated into the charger.
The Onyx 245 Charger Includes:
Deans Ultra Plug, Traxxas, and standard connector adapters for each output port.
A DC power lead with alligator clips for connecting to 12V DC power sources
To prevent overcharging, each output port has a safety backup and timer which is designed to stop charging automatically.
Includes ElectricFly and FlightPower/ Thunder Power 6s balance boards.
video

Final Thoughts 
If you are looking for a simple to use charger, without complications, this is the charger for you.
Navigating the menu is easy to do, the included manual is short (only a few pages) easy to read and apply.
The Onyx 245 Dual Charger includes a feature that actually shows you the current voltage in the pack, and if your using a balancing plug it will give you individual cell data.
This is a good entry level charger for those just beginning there adventure in the hobby. Comes with everything you need at a reasonable price.
Downside
One downside to the charger is you can only charge up to 3s packs, those of you running 4- 6s packs will have to find another option.

For more information on this charger visit our website airarmorrc.com