Traxxas Slash 2WD vs 4WD: All You Need to Know

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Drivetrain is a very important component of RC cars. The market is full of many types of drivetrain options. Traxxas Slash 2WD and 4WD are two popular options among them. 

But which is the best one between Traxxas Slash 2WD vs 4WD?

The answer to this question is not so simple. Several factors are different between these two models. Traxxas Slash 4WD is better for traction and proper control. Whereas, Traxxas 2WD has low maintenance. The price of this model is less too. Anyway, it comes with rigid control and less traction. 

This is only the beginning. There is much more information still to be unveiled. So please come with us to learn everything on this topic. Then make your choice in no time!

Short Comparison 

The basic functions of both Traxxas 2WD and 4WD are the same. But, there are several differences between their working procedures. You’ve to be very careful just like choosing between 540 and 550 motors.

Here we have gathered all the differences between Traxxas 4WD and 2WD in a table. Have a look at it to get a complete idea.

Factors Traxxas Slash 2WD Traxxas Slash 4WD 
Number of Drive Wheels24
TractionLessMore 
Replaceable PartsLessMore 
Better for System MoreLess
ControlHard Easy
PriceCheaperCostly

You can easily select the best Traxxas model from the above table. However, there are many details to all these points. Below we have discussed the matter with all the required information. 

Extended Comparison 

Since you have come to this section you are curious about more knowledge. I have got you! Right down we have discussed everything you need to know to make the right choice!

The Number of Drive Wheels

The first and most important difference between these two models is their number of drive wheels. This number indicates how many wheels are connected to the drive train. This is a very significant factor for drive options.

Traxxas 4WD comes with 4 drive wheels.

The Traxxas 4WD comes with 4 drive wheels. That means all 4 wheels are connected to the drive train. As a result, the drive train can generate more force. The automobile moves with more impact and the overall power delivery increases. 

On the other hand, the Traxxas Slash 2WD comes with two drive wheels. So two wheels are directly powered by the drivetrain. The rest of the two wheels move along the powered wheels. This significantly decreases the power delivery. 

Traction

The friction between the drive wheels and the road is known as traction. Traction is significant in the motion of any automobile. It is hard to gain acceleration from a stopping position without proper traction.

Traction depends on the number of drive wheels. More drive wheels mean more traction. Since Traxxas slash 4×4 has 4 drive wheels, it has more traction. So it can generate more acceleration easily.

On the contrary Traxxas slash 2×2 comes with 2 drive wheels. Thus it has less traction. For this reason, gaining acceleration will take more time than the 4WD model.

Replaceable Parts

Drive options are built with several numbers of parts. All these parts work together to produce the necessary motion. But more parts also cause more problems. For instance, bigger drive wheels come with more replaceable parts.

The number of replaceable parts in Traxxas Slash 2WD is less. Because it is smaller in size with only two wheels connected to the drivetrain. This reduces the replacement cost of the parts. Maintenance of 2WD is also easy for this reason. 

I have some suggestions for trustworthy replaceable parts for you. Check them out!

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Whereas the 4WD model comes with many smaller and replaceable parts. So the maintenance of Traxxas 4WD is costly. It takes a lot of time to replace all the parts. Also finding all the required components can be challenging.

Better for System 

Only drive wheels are not enough to run any RC car. There are motors and LiPo batteries also. The motor powers the drivetrain with the help of the battery. Proper synchronization between all these parts is very necessary for the optimum result. 

Traxxas Slash 4WD Battery

So we must know how the drive wheel functions with the rest of the system. The 2WD model is a lighter drive wheel. Thus it creates less strain on the motor and the battery. The motor lasts a long time because of this. Battery life can extend too.

However, the Traxxas Slash 4WD moves with 4 wheels. So the impact on the motor is also high. The motor goes through high stress with this drivetrain. The battery also lasts for a short period due to the heavy workload. 

Control

A very crucial factor of the drivetrain is its controlling mechanism. Everyone prefers a drivetrain option with better control. In that way, accidents can be prevented easily. The control depends on the wheels connected to the train. 

More wheel connection means more smooth control. So the Traxxas 4WD is easily controllable. On the other hand, the Traxxas 2WD has only 2-wheel connections. So the controlling mechanism of this drivetrain is harder.

The Price

I have reached the final comparison factor of the Traxxas Slash 2WD and 4WD. Now I am going to talk about the prices of these two models. We can see that the 4WD model has more wheel connections. As a result, the price of this model is also high.

On the contrary, the Traxxas Slash 2WD model is comparatively lighter with less spec. For this reason, the price of this model is also lower. The price is quite lower than the 4WD model.

You can take your decision without any problem from the above discussion. If you are still stuck, check the next section. I have presented my views on the matter there.

Final Discussion

Choosing the best Traxxas model is not as easy as testing ESC. You have to check all the facts beforehand to avoid any mistakes. Though the matter can get confusing, I have tried to express my opinion. 

If you want more traction with easy control, Traxxas slash 4WD is the one for you. It generates more power also. However, the price of this model is quite high. Also, the maintenance cost will be more.

If you want to save some bucks, go with the Traxxas Slash 2WD. It has a harder control mechanism. But it comes at a low cost. The maintenance cost is also very reasonable for this model.

FAQs 

Can a 2WD Traxxas Slash be turned into a 4WD? 

Yes, a 2WD Traxxas Slash can be turned into a 4WD. To do that you will need a proper transformation kit. There is the Traxxas Stampede 4×4 kit that can serve the purpose. However, the installation must be done properly to avoid any problems. The wrong installation can cause accidents. 

How do I keep my Traxxas Slash from rolling?

You can keep your Traxxas slash from rolling by using fuel tubing. The fuel tubing is to be applied on the inside of the shock on the shaft. Anyway, do not apply too much fuel tubing. It can cause negative results. Also, abstain from going at a very high speed and taking sharp turns.

What does heavier shock oil do?

Heavier shock oil will create more traction. The main function of the shock oil is to control the traction. More traction is produced by using heavier shock oils. With lighter shock oils, less traction will be produced. So you will have to be very careful in choosing the shock oil.

Conclusion 

This is all I have on Traxxas slash 2WD vs 4WD. I hope that now you can easily make your choice.

Before making a choice, check your RC motor and LiPo battery. You must make sure that the drivetrain syncs properly with the other components.

About the author

Travis Murray

I am Travis Murray, and my love for RC began in 2017. It gradually turned into a passion, leading me to become an RC enthusiast and blogger. I write in-depth reviews and DIY guides for RC enthusiasts to provide troubleshooting tips and insider knowledge to help starters find the hidden gems in the hobby.
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