While most of the content you read on our site is Arrma, we also realize that our fans and followers aren’t locked into just Arrma. Occasionally we feel it is necessary to bring other brands into the mix. That’s exactly what we’re doing today!
The Traxxas X-Maxx 8s is a legend right out of the box. You don’t need to upgrade anything for crazy performance! That said, there’s always room for improvement.
If you have an X-Maxx, you know it rips. The X-Maxx has been the heavyweight champ since its debut in February 2017. As an RC enthusiast, the X-Maxx is not just a truck; it’s a powerhouse of excitement. Whether you’ve been navigating the terrain with the first edition or embracing the upgraded features of the 2024 Limited Edition, the X-Maxx holds a special place at the top.
However, over time, heavy bashing might leave you wanting more power. The best solution to revive your X-maxx is a motor upgrade. Here we have listed three new motor and ESC upgrades for your favorite RC. Let’s take a look at these upgrades for your X-Maxx 8S, promising a revival of your RC adventures. Come on, let’s go fast!
3 Best X-Maxx 8S Motor & ESC Upgrade
HOBBYWING MAX8 G2 Combo 4278SD-2250KV
First on our list is the formidable brushless motor from HOBBYWING – the Ezrun MAX8 G2 Combo -2250KV. It is designed to fit your 1/6 scale 8S X-Max. The best thing about this product is you are getting a motor and ESC combo in one package.
HOBBYWING Ezrun MAX8 G2 Combo Features:
- Dynamic Combo: Includes the HOBBYWING Ezrun MAX8 G2 ESC (2022) and the powerful HOBBYWING EZRUN 4278SD-2250KV Motor.
- Current Capacity: Remarkable continuous/peak current of 160A/1050A.
- Motor Compatibility: Supports sensored and sensorless brushless motor types.
- Versatile Application: Well-suited to 1/8 on-road, off-road trucks, and crawlers.
- Battery Support: Compatible with 3-6 S Lipo batteries.
- BEC Output: Adjustable 6V/7.4V/8.4V with 6A continuous current (on/off).
- Parameter Settings: Easily adjustable through LCD G2 or OTA Programmer.
- Robust Waterproof Design: Innovative design for enhanced waterproofing and dust-proofing.
- Built-in BEC: Ultra-powerful switch mode BEC supporting high-voltage servos.
- Turbo Timing Setting: Allows a 32-degree turbo timing setting for increased RPM with compatible motors.
- Advanced Electronic Switches: Ensure safety and reliability in various environments.
- Multiple Protections: Features low voltage, overheating, signal loss, and current protection.
- Compatibility: Compatible with LED program card, LCD G2 program box, and OTA programmer.
- Data Logging: Real-time data logging is available via the HW LINK app using the OTA Bluetooth module.
- Firmware Upgrade: Supports firmware upgrades for access to the latest features.
Specifications:
- Weight: 1.98 pounds.
- Dimensions: 7.75 x 6 x 2.5 inches.
HOBBYWING’s Ezrun MAX8 G2 Combo gives your X-Maxx the performance it deserves.
Note: It works well, but make sure you get the right program cards. Before getting this setup, do your research. Note that it needs higher C-rated batteries to function properly. If you don’t upgrade to these batteries, you might encounter issues like overheating, shutdowns, or, in extreme cases, a risk of catching fire.
CASTLE CREATIONS BRUSHLESS Motor 1717-1650kV
Next, we have the powerful Castle Creations SENSORED BRUSHLESS 1717-1650kV motor. It is ideal for enhancing your 1/6 scale vehicles like x-maxx. It promises an elevated level of performance and style.
Castle Creations 1717-1650kV Motor Features:
Robust Construction: High-strength neodymium sintered magnets and Kevlar wrap ensure rotor integrity even in harsh running conditions.
Low Resistance Stator: The stator is wound with proprietary techniques to ensure the lowest possible resistance for a cooler motor.
Durable Bearings: Oversized NMB bearings and a vibration-dampening system maximize bearing life.
High-Quality Connectors: Equipped with high-current 6.5mm male Castle Bullet Connectors attached to replaceable 10-gauge wire. It also includes a 210mm sensor wire.
Versatile Application: Ideal for 1/6 scale vehicles up to 20lbs running on 6s – 8s LiPo batteries.
Compatibility: Also, suitable upgrade for 1/8th scale vehicles like Losi LST2-E, Traxxas E-Maxx, E-Revo, UDR, Summit, and Redcat Shredder.
Specifications:
Material: Aluminum, Steel.
Weight: 1.3 Pounds.
Dimensions: 3.35 x 1.87 x 3.35 inches.
Speed: 18650 RPM.
Voltage: 650 Volts.
The 1717-1650kV motor from Castle Creations delivers good quality, performance, and reliability.
Spektrum Firma 160A Smart ESC with Capacitor 3S – 8S
The Spektrum Firma 160A Smart ESC with Capacitor 3S – 8S is the final product on our list. However, it is not a motor but an ESC. It is characterized by its robust black design. It seamlessly integrates into the Smart ecosystem of your X-Max, ensuring optimal RC performance.
Key Features of Spektrum Firma 160A Smart ESC:
Smart Telemetry: Uses smart, all-in-one telemetry to get detailed info on your RC vehicle.
Powerful Processor: Equipped with a fast, powerful 32-bit ARM M4 processor for efficient operation.
Waterproof Design: Ensures durability with a waterproof build to withstand various environmental conditions.
Virtual Engineering: Connects you to crucial operating data directly, enhancing the overall performance of your model.
Easy Programming: Offers multiple options for easy programming to tailor the ESC settings to your preferences.
Smart Ecosystem Integration: This motor is like a team player, fitting perfectly into the Spektrum Smart family. It easily works with other Smart electronics, making your RC system smooth, unified, and high-performing.
Streamlined Design: No additional wires, modules, or links are required. The Firma ESC offers a simplified, one-wire solution for accessing real-time telemetry data.
Real-time Telemetry Data: Provides instant access to essential data, including RPM, temperature, battery voltage, and capacity. So, it helps to eliminate the need for post-run analysis.
Specifications:
- Product Dimensions: 5.6 x 4 x 2.2 inches.
- Item Weight: 6.9 ounces.
The Spektrum Firma 160A Smart ESC elevates your RC connection to new heights with its simplicity and superiority. This fits all ESCs for the 6th scale or even some for the 5th scale RC models.
What Are High-C Rating Batteries?
When it comes to upgrading your RC vehicle with a high-powered motor and ESC, paying attention to the battery’s C rating becomes crucial. The C rating of a LiPo battery indicates its maximum discharge rate, and opting for a high C rating can significantly impact your RC experience.
Using a battery with a low C rating in your RC vehicle, especially after upgrading to a high-powered motor and ESC can lead to issues like overheating, reduced performance, and a shortened lifespan.
Conclusion
Supercharge your X-Maxx 8s with these awesome motor & ESC upgrades! It’s like giving a Red Bull to a Wolverine. Whether you love speedy runs or off-road fun, these motor upgrades will make your X-Maxx even more awesome. Just plug them in, hit the throttle, and watch your RC game go to the next level! Upgrade your X-Maxx 8s to beast mode!
