FTX Tracer Metal Rear Dogbones Transmission Upgrade 1/16 RC Truck FTX9781

Overview

The FTX Tracer Metal Rear Dogbones (FTX9781) are a high-quality drivetrain upgrade designed specifically for the FTX Tracer 1/16 scale RC monster truck and truggy. If you own an FTX Tracer or BlackZon Slyder and are looking to strengthen your rear drivetrain, these metal dogbones represent a significant step up from the stock plastic components. Whether you're a dedicated RC enthusiast running aggressive off-road bashing sessions or someone who wants to reduce maintenance intervals and breakage, these metal dogbones deliver the durability and reliability you need for long-term enjoyment of your RC car in the UK.

Dogbones, also known as axle shafts or drive shafts, are critical components that transfer power from the transmission to the wheels. The stock plastic versions fitted to the FTX Tracer can become a weak point during high-performance driving, aggressive terrain, or when running upgraded motors and speed controllers. By upgrading to these FTX metal rear dogbones, you're investing in a component that will handle higher torque loads, resist wear more effectively, and keep your RC monster truck or truggy running reliably whether you're bashing in the garden, at the local RC track, or tackling challenging outdoor terrain across the UK.

This is a must-have upgrade for any FTX Tracer owner looking to strengthen their rear drivetrain and reduce the risk of costly replacement parts and downtime. As part of the FTX Tracer options range, these dogbones are engineered to the same high standards as the rest of the FTX range, ensuring perfect fitment and long-term reliability. Ready to run RC cars and trucks are only as strong as their weakest link, and upgrading the drivetrain components is one of the smartest investments you can make to keep your RC vehicle performing at its best.

Key Features

• Metal Construction — Made from durable metal rather than plastic, these rear dogbones provide significantly improved strength and longevity compared to the stock components, ensuring they can withstand the demands of high-power setups and rough terrain bashing without breaking or wearing prematurely.
• Set of Two Rear Dogbones — You receive both rear dogbones needed to complete the upgrade, allowing you to replace the entire rear drivetrain assembly and ensure balanced, reliable power delivery to both rear wheels.
• Designed for FTX Tracer — These dogbones are engineered specifically for the FTX Tracer 1/16 scale 4WD monster truck and truggy platforms, guaranteeing perfect fitment and compatibility without modification or adjustment required.
• Enhanced Power Transfer — The superior material strength of these metal dogbones enables more efficient power transfer from the transmission to the wheels, reducing energy loss and improving overall drivetrain performance, particularly noticeable when running high-powered brushless motors.
• Reduced Wear and Breakage Risk — Upgrading to metal dogbones dramatically reduces the likelihood of shaft breakage, stripping, or wear during aggressive driving, jumps, and high-torque situations, ultimately saving you money on replacement parts and reducing downtime.
• Ideal for High-Power Setups — If you've upgraded your FTX Tracer with a brushless motor, higher-voltage LiPo batteries, or a more powerful ESC, metal dogbones are an essential companion upgrade to handle the increased power and torque output without risk of drivetrain failure.
• Off-Road Bashing Performance — Whether you're driving on grass, dirt, sand, or mixed terrain, these metal dogbones provide the durability and reliability needed for extended off-road sessions without the worry of breaking stock components.
• Increased Long-Term Reliability — As a fundamental drivetrain component, upgrading to metal dogbones extends the overall lifespan of your FTX Tracer and reduces the frequency of maintenance and component replacement, representing excellent value over the lifetime of ownership.
• Also Compatible with BlackZon Slyder — Beyond the FTX Tracer, these metal rear dogbones are also compatible with the BlackZon Slyder ST and MT 1/16th scale vehicles, including all colour variants, making this a versatile upgrade option if you own multiple vehicles in this scale.

Technical Performance

The FTX Tracer Metal Rear Dogbones represent a significant engineering upgrade over the standard plastic components supplied with the vehicle. Metal dogbones offer superior tensile strength, fatigue resistance, and durability compared to plastic, which is critical for a component that must continuously transmit rotational forces and torque from the transmission to the wheels during acceleration, cornering, and load-bearing situations. The metal construction means these dogbones can handle the stresses imposed by high-power brushless motor upgrades and aggressive 3S or 4S LiPo battery configurations without risk of catastrophic failure. For the FTX Tracer, which is a 1/16 scale 4WD monster truck and truggy platform, the rear dogbones must be robust enough to support both wheels simultaneously whilst absorbing impacts from jumping and rough terrain. The engineering behind these metal shafts ensures that power delivery remains smooth and efficient, with minimal flex or vibration that could cause driveline loss. These are precision-manufactured components that meet the exacting standards FTX applies across its entire range of ready-to-run RC cars and trucks. Installation is straightforward for anyone with basic RC maintenance experience, involving removal of the old plastic dogbones and installation of the metal replacements using the existing fixings. For UK RC enthusiasts who regularly bash their vehicles or race competitively, metal dogbone upgrades are considered essential preventative maintenance, far less expensive than replacing the complete transmission or purchasing a new RC vehicle after drivetrain failure.

What's in the Box

• 2 x FTX Tracer Metal Rear Dogbones

Frequently Asked Questions

• What vehicles are these metal rear dogbones compatible with? — These FTX9781 metal rear dogbones are designed specifically for the FTX Tracer 1/16 scale 4WD monster truck and truggy, available in multiple colours including orange, red, blue, yellow, and green. They are also compatible with the BlackZon Slyder ST (Stadium Truck) and MT (Monster Truck) 1/16th scale vehicles in all colour variants.
• Why should I upgrade from plastic to metal dogbones? — Plastic dogbones, whilst adequate for casual driving, can break or wear under heavy use, particularly when running upgraded motors or higher-voltage batteries. Metal dogbones are far more durable, resist wear better, provide improved power transfer efficiency, and significantly reduce the risk of drivetrain failure during aggressive off-road bashing or competitive driving, making them an essential upgrade for reliability-conscious RC enthusiasts in the UK.
• Will these metal dogbones fit my FTX Tracer without modification? — Yes, these metal rear dogbones are engineered to be direct replacements for the stock plastic components on the FTX Tracer platform and will fit perfectly without any modification, adjustment, or alignment work required. They use the same mounting points and specifications as the original parts.
• Are these suitable for high-power brushless upgrades? — Absolutely. These metal dogbones are specifically recommended for high-power setups, including brushless motor upgrades and higher-voltage LiPo battery configurations. Metal construction ensures they can handle the increased torque and power output without breaking, making them an essential companion upgrade to any brushless conversion.
• How difficult is installation? — Installation of these metal dogbones is straightforward and requires only basic RC maintenance skills and tools. You simply remove the old plastic dogbones from the rear axle assembly and install the metal replacements using the existing fixings. The process typically takes 15-20 minutes for someone with basic RC experience, and detailed illustrated guides are available online if you need step-by-step instruction.
• Will these improve my FTX Tracer's performance? — Whilst these dogbones don't increase top speed directly, they improve overall drivetrain efficiency by providing superior power transfer from the motor and transmission to the wheels with minimal flex. You may notice improved acceleration response and more consistent drive characteristics, plus the significant benefit of increased reliability and reduced breakage risk during aggressive driving.
• What is the difference between front and rear dogbones? — Front and rear dogbones have different specifications to suit the different loads and forces experienced at the front and rear of the vehicle. These FTX9781 components are specifically engineered for rear axle installation on the FTX Tracer and are not compatible with front axle positions, so ensure you're purchasing the correct rear set.
• How long will these dogbones last? — Metal dogbones are significantly more durable than plastic equivalents and can last for years of regular use if maintained properly. Their lifespan depends on driving intensity, terrain, and whether the vehicle is maintained according to FTX recommendations. Most RC enthusiasts find that metal dogbones require replacement far less frequently than plastic alternatives, representing excellent long-term value.
• Can I use these on BlackZon Slyder vehicles? — Yes, these metal rear dogbones are also compatible with the BlackZon Slyder ST and MT 1/16th scale vehicles. BlackZon Slyder platforms share compatibility with FTX components across several categories, and these dogbones fit both the Slyder Stadium Truck and Monster Truck variants in all colour options.

Why Buy from RC Model Shop?

RC Model Shop is a trusted UK RC retailer and authorised dealer for all the brands we stock, including Traxxas, ARRMA, Losi, FTX, Hobbywing, Spektrum and more. Based in Walsall, we have a physical store where customers are welcome to come in, view products and purchase in store. Whether you are a seasoned competitor, a weekend basher, or just discovering the world of RC for the first time, our team of experienced RC enthusiasts is here to help you find the perfect setup and provide ongoing support. Order the FTX TRACER METAL REAR DOGBONES FTX9781 today with confidence, knowing you are buying from an authorised retailer with genuine products, expert knowledge and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Shop online or visit us in Walsall — we look forward to helping you get the most out of your RC experience.