Traxxas 17-T Pinion Gear Module 1.0 Metric Pitch 5mm Shaft TRX6490X

Overview

The Traxxas 17-T Pinion Gear (1.0 metric pitch) with 5mm shaft (model TRX6490X) is a premium replacement drivetrain component engineered for the most demanding high-performance Traxxas monsters and RC vehicles. Whether you're operating an X-Maxx, Maxx, WideMaxx, or compatible Traxxas model, this pinion gear delivers the reliability and precision that serious RC enthusiasts demand. As an authorised Traxxas retailer, RC Model Shop supplies only genuine Traxxas components that meet the manufacturer's exacting standards, ensuring your RC car UK setup maintains peak performance run after run.

This is not a beginner-level repair part—it's a precision component designed for users who understand the critical importance of drivetrain integrity in high-speed, high-torque applications. The 17-tooth configuration makes this pinion ideal for tuning your gear ratio to match specific track conditions, terrain types, and performance requirements. If you're serious about competitive RC racing or weekend bashing with professional-grade brushless RC vehicles, having quality replacement pinion gears in your spares kit is essential.

The Traxxas engineering philosophy behind every drivetrain component is uncompromising: deliver maximum torque transfer, exceptional durability under extreme stress, and seamless compatibility with Traxxas's exclusive Cush Drive spur gear system. This pinion gear is a critical part of that chain, working in concert with Module 1.0 spur gears to protect your drivetrain from the shock loads generated during hard launches, jump landings, and high-traction manoeuvres on rough terrain.

Key Features

• Module 1.0 Metric Pitch Specification — This metric gear sizing system is equivalent to 25.4 pitch, which represents significantly larger and stronger teeth than the industry-standard 32 pitch found on many RC vehicles. Larger teeth distribute stress loads more effectively, resist stripping under high-torque conditions, and dramatically extend drivetrain lifespan compared to smaller-pitch alternatives.
• 17-Tooth Configuration — The 17-tooth count positions this gear as a versatile mid-range option within Traxxas's pinion gear range. This tooth count supports balanced performance characteristics, allowing you to fine-tune your vehicle's acceleration and top speed by selecting alternative tooth counts if desired. The 17-tooth specification suits a wide variety of driving conditions and terrain types.
• 5mm Shaft Bore — The 5mm splined shaft interface ensures rock-solid engagement with compatible Traxxas motor outputs. This larger shaft diameter compared to 3mm alternatives provides superior torque transfer efficiency and eliminates power loss through micro-slip, ensuring every amp of current delivers maximum thrust to the wheels.
• Extreme-Duty Drivetrain Integration — This pinion works seamlessly with Traxxas's proprietary Cush Drive elastomer-cushioned spur gear system. Rather than relying on complex and consumable slipper clutches, the Cush Drive uses a specially engineered elastomer between the spur gear and its hub to absorb the shock loads of hard launches and jump landings. This spares your entire drivetrain from damaging jolts while eliminating wear parts and maintenance complexity.
• Precision Manufacturing — Every tooth is manufactured to exacting tolerances using Traxxas's proprietary processes. This ensures smooth, quiet mesh with compatible spur gears, eliminates gear whine and vibration, and guarantees consistent performance from the first run to the thousandth run.
• Genuine Traxxas Component — This is an authentic Traxxas part backed by the manufacturer's quality assurance and engineering heritage. Counterfeit or inferior aftermarket pinion gears risk stripping, misalignment, and catastrophic drivetrain failure. Genuine Traxxas components guarantee fitment, performance, and longevity.

Technical Performance

The Traxxas 17-T Pinion Gear represents the cutting edge of RC drivetrain engineering, specifically designed for the extreme demands of high-powered brushless monsters like the X-Maxx and Maxx. These vehicles produce staggering amounts of torque thanks to their mission-optimised Velineon brushless motors—the Maxx's 540XL motor operates at 2,400 rpm per volt delivering 35,520 rpm on a 4-cell 14.8V LiPo, whilst the X-Maxx's larger 1200XL motor, despite running at 1,200 rpm per volt, generates immense torque by running dual 4-cell batteries totalling 29.6 volts. The pinion gear must transmit these power levels reliably, and the Module 1.0 metric pitch specification provides 25.4-pitch-equivalent tooth size—substantially stronger than 32-pitch alternatives. The 5mm shaft bore accepts the full output of Traxxas's largest motors without slipping or losing power. When combined with Traxxas's Torque-Biasing Center Drive Unit and steel-geared sealed differentials filled with heavyweight silicone oil, this pinion gear enables the phenomenal acceleration and cornering authority these vehicles are famous for. Monster trucks can achieve speeds exceeding 50 mph and generate enough traction to land multi-storey jumps, and your drivetrain must handle these stresses without hesitation. The elastomer Cush Drive system dissipates shock loads through controlled distortion rather than relying on friction-dependent slipper clutches, meaning performance remains consistent whether you're launching from a standstill or recovering from an aerial landing. This is professional-grade RC equipment for drivers who demand reliability under extreme conditions.

What's in the Box

• Traxxas 17-T Pinion Gear (1.0 metric pitch) for 5mm shaft

Compatible Vehicles

This pinion gear is a direct replacement component compatible with the following Traxxas models:

• Traxxas Maxx Slash 1/8 4WD 6S Brushless Short Course Truck (all colours)
• Traxxas WideMaxx Monster Truck (all colours)
• Traxxas X-Maxx Belted 4WD Brushless RTR 8S Monster Truck (all colours)
• Traxxas X-Maxx Ultimate (all colours)
• Traxxas XRT VXL-8S Rock Crawler (all colours)
• Traxxas XRT Ultimate Rock Crawler (all colours)

Verify your vehicle's compatibility before ordering. If you're uncertain whether this component fits your specific Traxxas model, our RC Model Shop team are happy to assist.

Why Pinion Gears Need Replacement

Even the toughest RC drivers eventually need replacement pinion gears. High-speed impacts, gear mesh misalignment over time, or simply the accumulated wear of thousands of hard-driven kilometres can cause pinion gear teeth to develop flat spots, cracks, or excessive play. A worn pinion gear degrades acceleration response, causes grinding noises, and can damage your spur gear through improper mesh. Keeping a spare pinion gear in your tool kit ensures you're never sidelined by a worn drivetrain component, and it's one of the most cost-effective ways to extend your RC vehicle's operational lifespan. The Traxxas 17-T pinion offers an excellent reference point for your tuning arsenal—if you want to experiment with different gear ratios, having 16-tooth and 18-tooth alternatives available lets you fine-tune acceleration and top speed without major drivetrain changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Will this pinion gear fit my Traxxas model? — This component is specifically engineered for Traxxas vehicles equipped with Module 1.0 metric pitch drivetrain systems and 5mm shaft motors. Compatible models include the X-Maxx, Maxx, WideMaxx, Maxx Slash, XRT, and other recent high-performance Traxxas platforms. Older Traxxas vehicles using 32-pitch or other shaft sizes will not be compatible. Consult your vehicle's manual or contact our team to confirm fitment.
• What's the difference between Module 1.0 and 32-pitch gears? — Module 1.0 is a metric pitch specification equivalent to approximately 25.4 pitch in the imperial system. This means Module 1.0 gears have significantly larger, stronger teeth than standard 32-pitch gears. The larger teeth distribute load more effectively, resist stripping under high torque, and deliver superior durability in demanding high-speed applications. Modern Traxxas monsters use Module 1.0 exclusively because the superior strength is essential for reliably handling the extreme power of brushless motors.
• How often should I replace my pinion gear? — Replacement frequency depends entirely on how aggressively you drive and the terrain you tackle. Weekly weekend bashers might replace their pinion gear annually or every 18 months, whilst competitive racers who drive multiple times weekly may need replacement every few months. Regular inspection is your best guide—if you notice grinding noises, reduced acceleration response, or visible tooth damage, it's time to replace the pinion. Always inspect after high-impact incidents like hard landings or collisions.
• Can I use a different tooth count? — Yes, Traxxas offers pinion gears in multiple tooth counts (16, 17, 18 are common). Fewer teeth (16-tooth) lowers your final gear ratio, increasing top speed but reducing acceleration. More teeth (18-tooth) raises your gear ratio, improving acceleration but lowering top speed. Experiment with different counts to optimise performance for your preferred driving style and terrain. Always ensure the spur gear mesh is properly set when switching pinion sizes.
• Is this a genuine Traxxas part? — Yes, this is an authentic Traxxas component (model TRX6490X) supplied by RC Model Shop as an authorised Traxxas retailer. We guarantee genuine products only, never counterfeit or inferior aftermarket substitutes. Authentic Traxxas components carry the manufacturer's quality assurance and engineering heritage, ensuring perfect fitment and reliable performance.

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 Traxxas 17-T Pinion Gear (1.0 metric pitch) Set (fits 5mm shaft) TRX6490X 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.