Traxxas 21-Tooth Pinion Gear 1.0 Metric Pitch 5mm Bore TRX6493X

Overview

The Traxxas Gear, 21-T pinion (1.0 metric pitch) (fits 5mm shaft) with set screw is an essential component for fine-tuning the performance of your Traxxas RC car. Whether you're an experienced RC enthusiast running competitive models or a weekend basher enjoying outdoor fun, pinion gear selection is one of the most effective ways to optimise your vehicle's acceleration and top speed characteristics. This 21-tooth pinion gear is specifically designed to work with steel spur gears and fits motors with 5mm shafts, making it compatible with a wide range of Traxxas models including the Funco Motorsports Pro Scale 8S 2WD Electric Sand Cars.

Traxxas pinion gears are engineered to exacting standards and allow you to experiment with different gear ratios to match your running conditions and driving preferences. Whether you're looking to achieve more explosive acceleration for tight technical courses or seeking higher top speed for wide-open desert running, changing your pinion gear is often the quickest and most cost-effective way to transform your RC car's performance. For anyone serious about RC in the UK, understanding gear ratios and having a selection of pinion gears on hand is a fundamental part of the hobby.

This specific 21-tooth option sits in the mid-range of the pinion gear spectrum, offering a balanced compromise between acceleration and maximum velocity. The included set screw ensures secure attachment to your motor shaft, whilst the 1.0 metric pitch (Mod 1) specification guarantees perfect compatibility with matching steel spur gears. Whether you're upgrading your first RC car or maintaining a fleet of competition-ready vehicles, the Traxxas 21-T pinion gear is an affordable way to unlock new performance potential.

Key Features

• 21-tooth pinion design — This tooth count provides a balanced gear ratio that sits between aggressive acceleration-focused setups and high-speed configurations, making it suitable for general-purpose RC driving across varied terrain and conditions.
• 1.0 metric pitch (Mod 1) — The metric pitch specification ensures perfect meshing compatibility with steel spur gears, guaranteeing smooth power transfer and minimal noise during operation.
• 5mm motor shaft compatibility — The 5mm bore fits the motor shafts found on a wide range of Traxxas models, ensuring this gear will work with your existing drivetrain without requiring adapter sleeves or modifications.
• Included set screw — The precision set screw provides secure attachment to your motor shaft, preventing slippage during hard acceleration or cornering and ensuring reliable gear engagement at all times.
• Steel spur gear compatibility — This pinion is specifically engineered for use with hardened steel spur gears, which deliver superior durability and longevity compared to softer materials, particularly during sustained high-speed running or aggressive bashing.
• Performance tuning capability — By swapping pinion gears, you can fine-tune your vehicle's performance to match different track layouts, driving styles and environmental conditions without requiring complete transmission overhauls.
• OEM Traxxas quality — As genuine Traxxas original equipment, this pinion gear meets the exact specifications and quality standards that Traxxas vehicles are engineered around, ensuring reliable operation and optimal longevity.

Technical Performance

The Traxxas 21-T pinion gear represents the pinnacle of gear engineering for electric RC vehicles running on 5mm motor shafts. Manufactured to precise tolerances from high-quality materials, this pinion delivers consistent performance session after session. The 1.0 metric pitch specification is critical for smooth meshing with your spur gear, as even slight mismatches in pitch can lead to binding, noise, and accelerated wear on both gears. The 21-tooth configuration strikes an excellent balance for general-purpose RC running; lower tooth counts (such as 19-T or 20-T) would provide more aggressive acceleration but sacrifice top speed, whilst higher counts would prioritise velocity at the expense of launch responsiveness. The set screw mechanism ensures zero backlash between the pinion and motor shaft, which is essential for translating motor torque directly to your drivetrain with no dead spots. When paired with appropriate steel spur gears, this pinion creates a robust gear system capable of handling the demands of high-speed rock crawling, desert running, stadium truck racing, and aggressive bashing in the UK's varied terrain. The engineering philosophy behind Traxxas gearing emphasises reliability and consistency, making this a component you can trust whether you're battling in summer heat or winter mud.

What's in the Box

• Traxxas 21-tooth pinion gear (1.0 metric pitch)
• Set screw for secure shaft attachment

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the difference between 19-tooth, 20-tooth, 21-tooth and higher pinion gears? — The tooth count directly affects your vehicle's gear ratio and therefore its performance characteristics. Lower tooth counts like 19-T and 20-T produce faster acceleration and better low-end punch but reduce maximum top speed. The 21-T pinion offers a middle ground, whilst 22-T and higher provide progressively more top speed at the expense of acceleration. Consult your Traxxas model's owner's manual for recommended gearing options.
• Will this pinion gear work with my RC car? — This 21-T pinion with 5mm bore fits Traxxas models equipped with motors having 5mm shafts and using 1.0 metric pitch spur gears. Compatible vehicles include the Funco Motorsports Pro Scale 8S 2WD Electric Sand Car in all colour options. Always verify compatibility with your specific model's documentation before ordering.
• Do I need special tools to install the pinion gear? — Installation requires only a small hex key or Allen wrench to tighten the included set screw securely onto your motor shaft. No special tools are necessary, making this an ideal upgrade that takes minutes to complete.
• Can I use this pinion with plastic spur gears? — No. This pinion is specifically designed for use only with steel spur gears. Plastic spur gears lack the hardness and durability to properly mesh with this pinion and may suffer premature wear or breakage.
• How often should I replace my pinion gear? — With proper maintenance and use with compatible steel spur gears, a Traxxas pinion should provide hundreds of hours of reliable service. Replace it if you notice noise during meshing, visible damage to teeth, or if the set screw becomes loose repeatedly.
• What is metric pitch and why does it matter? — Metric pitch (measured in millimetres) defines the spacing between gear teeth. The 1.0 Mod pitch is the metric equivalent of 25.4 DP (diametral pitch). It's critical that your pinion and spur gear have matching pitch specifications; mismatched gears will not mesh properly and will generate excessive noise and wear.

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 Gear, 21-T pinion (1.0 metric pitch) (fits 5mm shaft)/ set screw (for use only with steel spur gears) TRX6493X 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.