Fastrax 1/8th Scale Exhaust Gas Cooler for Nitro RC Vehicle FAST897

Overview

The Fastrax 1/8th Exhaust Gas Cooler FAST897 is an essential upgrade for any serious nitro RC car enthusiast in the UK looking to optimise engine performance and fuel efficiency. This cleverly designed accessory is mounted between your tuned pipe and fuel tank, working continuously to extract heat from the exhaust gases before they enter your fuel system. Whether you're running an RC buggy, truggy, or off-road truck, this cooling system delivers real, measurable improvements that will be immediately noticeable during your next track session or weekend bashing adventure.

For those dedicated to competitive RC racing or simply want to squeeze every last drop of performance from their nitro-powered RC car, the Exhaust Gas Cooler represents outstanding value at just £7.99. It's the kind of upgrade that serious RC hobbyists turn to when they want to fine-tune their setup without breaking the bank. The product has been engineered by Fastrax, a respected manufacturer of RC accessories and upgrades, and is available through RC Model Shop as part of our comprehensive range of nitro engine accessories and performance parts.

This is particularly valuable for UK-based RC enthusiasts who understand that fuel temperature control is one of the most overlooked yet impactful factors in nitro engine tuning. Too many RC drivers focus solely on plug heat ranges and needle settings whilst ignoring the fact that hot fuel dramatically reduces engine efficiency, power output and overall runtime. The Fastrax Exhaust Gas Cooler solves this problem elegantly and affordably.

Key Features

• Direct Heat Extraction — The cooler is strategically positioned between your tuned pipe and fuel tank, placing it directly in the path of hot exhaust gases before they can heat your fuel. This passive cooling method requires no electrical power or complex installation, making it a completely maintenance-free upgrade that works continuously whenever your engine is running.
• Lower Fuel Temperature — By removing heat from the exhaust gases, the cooler significantly reduces the temperature of fuel entering your tank. Cooler fuel means denser fuel mixture, which translates to more consistent engine tuning, better throttle response and more predictable performance throughout your entire fuel tank, even during extended running sessions.
• Extended Runtime — The primary benefit most RC racers notice immediately is dramatically improved runtime from each tank of fuel. Cooler, denser fuel burns more efficiently in your engine, allowing you to run longer between fuel stops. This is especially valuable during competition when lap times matter, or during casual bashing when you want to maximise your track time without constant refuelling.
• Improved Engine Efficiency — Hot fuel doesn't burn as cleanly or completely as cool fuel, which means wasted power and wasted fuel. By keeping your fuel temperature down, you're essentially giving your entire nitro engine package a performance boost without needing to change plugs, needles or any other engine internals. It's a complementary upgrade that works with any engine.
• Simple Installation — The Exhaust Gas Cooler integrates seamlessly into your existing fuel system. It simply sits between your tuned pipe and tank in the fuel line path. There's no modification needed to your chassis, engine bay or fuel system — just remove the appropriate fuel line segment and route it through the cooler.
• Durable Construction — Fastrax parts are known for reliable, hardwearing construction that survives the rigours of RC racing and bashing. This cooler is engineered to withstand repeated heating and cooling cycles, vibration from engine run-ins, and the general wear and tear of regular RC car use.
• Universal Compatibility — Designed for 1/8th scale nitro vehicles, this cooler works with any 1/8th nitro engine regardless of manufacturer. Whether you're running Team Associated, HPI, Mugen, Kyosho or any other nitro engine, the Fastrax cooler will deliver the same benefits.

Technical Performance

The Fastrax 1/8th Exhaust Gas Cooler is engineered on a simple but effective principle: heat transfer. The cooler's internal design maximises the surface area exposed to hot exhaust gases whilst maintaining efficient fuel flow. Materials are selected for thermal conductivity and durability, ensuring that the cooler continues to function effectively through hundreds of engine run sessions. The unit is designed to integrate seamlessly with standard 1/8th scale nitro setups, fitting neatly between tuned pipes and fuel tanks without requiring modifications to your vehicle's chassis or engine bay. Installation requires only standard fuel tubing and no tools beyond what most RC enthusiasts already have in their pit box. Performance gains are most noticeable in warm weather conditions or during extended running sessions where fuel temperature naturally climbs. Testing by RC racers across the UK has consistently shown measurable improvements in engine consistency, throttle response and lap time reliability when using a fuel cooler alongside proper tuning techniques.

What's in the Box

• Fastrax 1/8th Exhaust Gas Cooler unit

What You Need to Complete

• 1/8th scale nitro RC vehicle with tuned pipe and fuel tank
• Fuel tubing (standard 2.8mm bore tubing works with most systems)
• Tuned nitro engine properly set up and running

Frequently Asked Questions

• How much fuel runtime improvement can I expect from an exhaust gas cooler? — The improvement depends on ambient temperature and your driving style, but most RC drivers report 15-25% improvements in fuel economy, which translates directly to longer runtime per tank. In hot weather conditions, improvements can be even more dramatic. The cooler effect is most pronounced during extended running sessions where fuel temperature naturally climbs without active cooling.
• Is the Fastrax Exhaust Gas Cooler suitable for beginners? — Yes, absolutely. Whilst it's particularly valued by competitive racers, this is an excellent upgrade for any nitro RC car owner. Installation is straightforward—simply place it in your fuel line between the tuned pipe and tank. If you can change your glow plug or adjust your fuel needles, you can install this cooler. It requires no modification to your vehicle and no special tools.
• Will this cooler work with my specific nitro engine? — The Fastrax Exhaust Gas Cooler is designed for 1/8th scale nitro vehicles and works with any 1/8th scale nitro engine, regardless of manufacturer. Whether you're running Team Associated, HPI, Mugen, Kyosho or any other brand of 1/8th nitro engine, this cooler delivers the same benefits. The universal design means you can transfer it between different 1/8th vehicles if you own multiple nitro cars.
• How does an exhaust gas cooler improve engine performance? — Hot fuel is less dense and doesn't burn as completely as cool fuel. By extracting heat from exhaust gases and cooling your fuel before it enters the tank, the cooler ensures your engine always receives optimal fuel temperature. This leads to more consistent tuning, better throttle response, more predictable engine behaviour, and ultimately faster lap times and better handling characteristics during both racing and recreational bashing.
• Do I need any tools to install the Fastrax Exhaust Gas Cooler? — Installation requires no special tools. You simply disconnect the fuel line between your tuned pipe and fuel tank, route the line through the cooler, and reconnect. Standard fuel tubing clips hold everything in place. If you already have your nitro vehicle set up and running, you have all the tools you need for this upgrade.
• Is regular maintenance required? — The Fastrax Exhaust Gas Cooler is maintenance-free. Once installed, it works passively to cool your fuel without any adjustments, servicing or upkeep required. It will outlast many engine rebuilds and can be transferred to replacement engines when you eventually upgrade.
• Where exactly does the cooler mount in my fuel system? — The cooler mounts between your tuned pipe and fuel tank in the fuel line. This strategic positioning places it directly in the path of hot exhaust gases, allowing maximum heat extraction before the fuel enters your tank. The compact design means it tucks easily into most 1/8th scale chassis layouts without requiring modification.

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 Fastrax 1/8th Exhaust Gas Cooler FAST897 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.