Overview
The FTX Outback Front & Rear Centre Universal Joint FTX8163 is an essential replacement spare part for owners of FTX Outback RC crawler models. This precision-engineered drivetrain component is designed to transmit power smoothly from your vehicle's transmission to the wheels whilst allowing for the angular movement required during aggressive off-road driving. Whether you're tackling challenging terrain at your local RC club or pushing your FTX Outback to its limits in competitive RC car UK events, having quality universal joints in your spares box is crucial for reliable performance.
Universal joints are fundamental to any RC vehicle's drivetrain system, acting as the flexible connector between the transmission output and the axle input. The FTX8163 is engineered to handle the demands of off-road RC driving, where suspension articulation and rough terrain can place significant stress on drivetrain components. This replacement joint ensures your FTX Outback crawler maintains optimal power delivery and drivability across all terrain types, from rocky hillsides to deep sand pits. If you've experienced any clicking, vibration, or loss of power transmission in your RC model, replacing worn universal joints with genuine FTX parts is often the solution.
As a dedicated UK RC hobby retailer, RC Model Shop stocks this genuine FTX spare part to keep your beloved RC crawler running at peak performance. The FTX Outback range has become one of the most popular RC crawler platforms in the UK, and maintaining it with genuine replacement parts ensures longevity and reliability. This front and rear centre universal joint is compatible with the FTX Outback range and represents excellent value for money at just £11.99.
Key Features
- Genuine FTX Manufacture — This universal joint is manufactured by FTX to original specifications, ensuring perfect fitment and compatibility with your FTX Outback RC crawler without any modification required.
- Front and Rear Application — Designed to work as a centre universal joint in both front and rear drivetrain configurations, making this a versatile spare part that covers multiple potential failure points on your crawler.
- Precision Engineering — Built to exacting tolerances, this joint provides smooth, reliable power transmission whilst allowing for the suspension movement and articulation that modern RC crawlers demand during intense off-road driving.
- Durable Construction — Engineered to withstand the torque and stress generated by brushless motors and high-performance drivetrain setups common in today's ready to run RC crawlers.
- Easy Replacement — Installing this universal joint requires only basic RC hobby tools and mechanical knowledge, making it an accessible upgrade or repair for RC enthusiasts of all skill levels.
- Stock Part for Popular Models — With the FTX Outback range being widely used across the UK, having this genuine replacement joint on hand ensures you can quickly get your RC model back on the track.
Technical Performance
The FTX Outback Front & Rear Centre Universal Joint is engineered with precision to meet the demanding requirements of modern RC crawler design. Universal joints represent critical components in any RC drivetrain, as they must accommodate both rotational power transmission and angular deflection during suspension articulation. This FTX8163 joint is manufactured to original equipment manufacturer (OEM) specifications, ensuring it meets the exact performance characteristics expected by FTX Outback owners. The joint's design allows for smooth power delivery across a wide range of suspension angles, which is essential when navigating the sort of extreme terrain that RC crawlers regularly encounter. Whether your FTX Outback is equipped with a brushless motor setup or traditional brushed drivetrain, this universal joint is engineered to handle the torque output reliably. The precision engineering ensures minimal play in the joint whilst maintaining the flexibility required for proper suspension geometry. As a centre drivetrain component, this joint plays a vital role in maintaining proper drivability whether you're climbing steep inclines, traversing rocky obstacles, or navigating through water crossings during your RC hobby sessions.
What's in the Box
- FTX Outback Front & Rear Centre Universal Joint (x1)
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I know when my RC crawler's universal joints need replacing? — Common signs of worn universal joints include clicking or popping sounds during acceleration or turning, vibration in the drivetrain, or noticeably reduced power transmission to the wheels. If your FTX Outback feels less responsive or you hear noise from the drivetrain area during normal driving, it's time to inspect your universal joints.
- Is this universal joint compatible with all FTX Outback models? — This FTX8163 is designed as a centre universal joint for FTX Outback RC crawlers. The wide compatibility across the FTX Outback range makes this a valuable spare part to have on hand, though you should verify compatibility with your specific model variant before purchase.
- Can I install this myself or do I need professional help? — Replacing universal joints on an RC crawler is a task well within the capability of most RC hobbyists. You'll typically need basic tools such as hex keys and small pliers. If you're confident in working on your RC model and have basic mechanical knowledge, this is a straightforward job that takes just a few minutes.
- What's the difference between front, rear and centre universal joints? — Centre universal joints, like the FTX8163, are designed to work in both front and rear applications, offering versatility in your spares collection. This makes them particularly valuable as they address potential failure points in multiple locations on your RC crawler's drivetrain.
- How often should I replace universal joints on my RC car? — With normal use and good maintenance practices, quality universal joints can last for many months or even years of recreational RC driving. However, aggressive driving, impacts, or off-road conditions can accelerate wear. Keeping spare universal joints on hand means you're never stranded when one fails unexpectedly.
- Is this part genuine FTX or a third-party copy? — This is an authentic FTX original part, manufactured to exacting OEM specifications. Genuine FTX spares ensure proper fitment, durability, and performance compared to third-party alternatives.
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 OUTBACK FRONT & REAR CENTRE UNIVERSAL JOINT FTX8163 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.
- Brand: FTX
- Model Number: FTX8163
- Product Type: Front & Rear Centre Universal Joint
- Spare Part Category: Drivetrain Spares
- Compatible Vehicle Range: FTX Outback models
- Application: Front and rear centre drivetrain
- EAN Code: 5055323980008
- Recommended Retail Price: £11.99
- Availability: In Stock
We want to make sure your delivery goes smoothly, so here are some important details about our service:
- For orders above £120, we offer delivery to most mainland UK addresses. For orders under £120, we can still deliver to Northern Ireland and the outlying isles, as long as the item can be sent by Royal Mail, weighs less than 30kg, and fits within 61cm × 46cm × 46cm. Some highland and remote areas may carry an extra delivery charge as couriers often apply surcharges in these locations. If you live in one of these areas, feel free to contact us before ordering so we can confirm the delivery options and costs for you.
- Most of our products include delivery in the price. If your order is under £90, a small delivery fee will apply but do not worry this will always be clearly shown at checkout before you complete your purchase.
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- If your order includes items with different dispatch times we will normally wait and send everything together once all items are in stock. If one of the items is going to take a while we will give you the choice either wait for everything to arrive or let us send the available items now and deliver the rest later. It is up to you.
- We use trusted delivery partners to make sure your order gets to you safely and on time. We use DPD for next working day deliveries and Royal Mail for the 2 day option.
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- If a product is marked as "Dispatched within 3 working days" delivery usually takes around 3 to 5 working days from when your order is placed.
- For customers in Inverness and other parts of the Scottish Highlands deliveries can take up to 2 working days even if you select next day delivery as couriers do not currently offer a guaranteed next day service to those areas.
