Adding weights to your crawler correctly

Crawlers are vehicles designed to conquer extreme terrain, such as rocks, muddy slopes and other rough surfaces. For serious hobbyists, adding weights to an RC crawler is a popular technique to improve performance. However, this can also have disadvantages if not done properly. In this article we discuss the advantages, disadvantages, and where to place weights for optimal performance.

Advantages

1. Improved Stability: Adding weight lowers the crawler's center of gravity, resulting in more stability. This is especially useful when climbing steep slopes or balancing on rocks. It prevents the crawler from tipping over easily.

2. Better Grip on Uneven Terrain: Heavier wheels and axles ensure that the tires maintain better contact with the surface, which provides more traction. This is crucial when driving over slippery or loose surfaces such as rocks and mud.

3. Improved Performance on Steep Slopes: Adding more weight to the front of the crawler improves climbing capabilities. The front wheels gain more grip, which helps you climb steep slopes more efficiently without tipping backwards.

Cons

1. More Stress on Components: The extra weight puts more stress on the engine, gearbox, suspension and driveshafts. This can lead to faster wear of these parts or even mechanical problems such as engine overheating or broken gears.

2. Greater Energy Requirements: A heavier crawler requires more from the battery, which means that driving time decreases because the engine has to work harder. This may mean that you have to replace batteries more often or invest in larger or more powerful batteries.

3. Less Maneuverability: Heavier crawlers can be less maneuverable, especially if the weight is unevenly distributed. This can make it more difficult to make tight turns or quickly change direction in difficult terrain.

Best Places to Add Weight

1. Wheels and Rims: Adding weight to the wheels or in the rims (such as weight rings or weight inserts) is one of the best ways to lower the center of gravity and improve grip. Heavy wheels press the tires more firmly onto the surface, which provides more traction and a more stable ride.

   
   

2. Front Axle: Adding weight to the front axle can greatly improve the crawler's climbing capabilities. A heavier front end helps keep the front wheels on the ground, allowing the crawler to climb steep slopes more efficiently.

    
3. Bottom of the Chassis: Mounting weights low on the chassis lowers the center of gravity, which prevents tipping and increases stability on uneven terrain. This is an effective way to improve overall handling without putting too much stress on other components.
   
    

4. Knuckles and Portal Gears: Adding weights to the steering knuckles or portal gears (if equipped) keeps the weight low and close to the wheels, helping with stability and grip without too much impact on the performance of the engine.

Places you shouldn't add weight to

1. Top of Chassis: Weights on top of the chassis raise the center of gravity and make the crawler more prone to tipping. This works directly against the purpose of weight distribution and stability. Therefore, avoid adding weight to, for example, the bodywork or on top of the suspension.

2. Rear Axle (Too Much Weight): While a little weight on the rear axle can be helpful, too much weight can unbalance the crawler. This can cause the rear to apply too much pressure, which reduces the grip of the front wheels, especially when climbing.

3. Motor and Electronics: Adding weight to the motor or electronic components can cause overheating. This is because these parts are already working hard to power the crawler and cooling is crucial to their performance and lifespan.

Conclusion

Adding weights to an RC crawler can significantly improve its performance, especially when it comes to stability, grip and climbing abilities. However, it is important to distribute the weights strategically and evenly to minimize the disadvantages, such as extra load on the engine and gearbox. The best places to add weight are the wheels, front axle, and lower parts of the chassis. Avoid adding weight to high or central parts of the crawler, as this raises the center of gravity and increases the chance of tipping.

With the right balance between weight distribution and performance, your RC crawler can better handle challenging terrains and give you more control over your vehicle.