Overview
The FTX Tracer Front Gearbox Top Housing & Top Plate (FTX9701) is an essential replacement and upgrade component for FTX Tracer 1/16 scale RC monster trucks and truggies. Whether you're operating an FTX Tracer in the UK or anywhere else, this genuine OEM spare part ensures your vehicle maintains peak performance and reliability. This front gearbox housing assembly is specifically engineered to fit the entire FTX Tracer range, including standard models, brushless variants, and truggy configurations across all available colour options.
If you own an FTX Tracer 1/16 RTR monster truck or truggy—whether in orange, red, blue, yellow, or green—this is the authentic replacement part you need for maintenance and repairs. RC enthusiasts and weekend bashers alike rely on genuine FTX spares to keep their vehicles running smoothly. The front gearbox housing is a critical drivetrain component that houses essential gearing mechanisms, and having access to quality replacement parts means you can get back on the track or trail quickly without compromising performance or durability.
RC Model Shop stocks genuine FTX parts for all Tracer models, making it easy for UK-based RC hobbyists to source the exact spares they need. Whether you're upgrading your chassis, repairing wear and tear, or maintaining your ready to run RC truck for optimal performance, this front gearbox top housing and plate is the professional choice for serious RC enthusiasts.
Key Features
- Genuine OEM FTX Part — This is an authentic FTX-manufactured component, ensuring perfect fitment and compatibility with your FTX Tracer 1/16 scale RC vehicle. Using genuine spares protects your investment and maintains warranty validity.
- Front Gearbox Housing Assembly — The top housing and top plate work together to form the upper section of your front gearbox, containing and protecting the critical gear mechanisms that drive your front wheels. Damage to this component compromises drivetrain efficiency and can lead to further mechanical failure.
- Universal Tracer Compatibility — This part fits all FTX Tracer 1/16 models including the standard RTR monster truck variants (orange, red, blue), the brushless high-performance versions (yellow and blue options), and the truggy configurations (orange, red, green). Whether you own an FTX5576 series monster truck or FTX5577 series truggy, this housing is engineered to work perfectly with your model.
- Drop-In Replacement — Installation is straightforward for users with basic RC mechanical knowledge. This housing replaces worn, cracked, or damaged units without requiring additional modifications or upgrades to your vehicle.
- Durable Construction — FTX components are built to withstand the demands of off-road RC driving, from jumps and landings to high-speed terrain performance. The top housing protects internal gears from dirt, debris, and impact damage whilst maintaining precise alignment.
- Cost-Effective Repair Solution — Rather than replacing your entire vehicle or multiple drivetrain components, this targeted spare part allows budget-conscious RC enthusiasts to restore their Tracer to working condition at a fraction of the cost of a full rebuild.
Technical Performance
The FTX Tracer Front Gearbox Top Housing & Top Plate represents quality engineering specifically designed for the demanding 1/16 scale RC market. The housing assembly forms the complete upper section of the front gearbox, serving as both a structural component and a protective enclosure for the precision gears that transfer power from the motor to the front wheels. FTX has engineered this part to maintain tight tolerances, which is essential for smooth gear mesh and efficient power delivery. The top housing and top plate combination creates a sealed environment that protects internal gearing from moisture, sand, and debris commonly encountered during outdoor RC racing and bashing sessions. The material selection and manufacturing process ensure that this component can withstand the shock loads and vibration inherent to high-performance 1/16 scale off-road driving. Whether you're running a standard brushed motor setup or upgrading to the brushless variants available in the Tracer range, this gearbox housing maintains compatibility and performance. The precise engineering also means that replacing a damaged housing restores your vehicle to like-new performance characteristics, making it an essential part for any serious FTX Tracer owner looking to maintain their RC truck or truggy in peak condition.
What's in the Box
- FTX Tracer Front Gearbox Top Housing & Top Plate assembly (FTX9701)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which FTX Tracer models is this front gearbox housing compatible with? — This FTX9701 housing is designed to fit the entire FTX Tracer 1/16 scale range, including the standard RTR monster truck models (FTX5576 series in orange, red, and blue), the brushless high-performance variants (FTX5596 series in yellow and blue), and all truggy configurations (FTX5577 series in orange, red, and green). If you own any FTX Tracer 1/16 model, this is the correct replacement part for your front gearbox.
- When do I need to replace the front gearbox housing? — You should replace the top housing and top plate if you notice cracks, warping, or visible damage to the gearbox enclosure. If your vehicle is leaking gear oil, grinding sounds are coming from the front end, or the housing is bent from impact damage, replacement is necessary. Even minor cracks can allow dirt and moisture inside, leading to premature gear wear and complete gearbox failure.
- Is this part suitable for beginners, or do I need professional mechanic skills? — Whilst replacing the front gearbox housing requires some mechanical knowledge and basic RC tools, it is within the capability of intermediate RC enthusiasts who have experience with vehicle maintenance. Beginners are advised to watch instructional videos or consult the FTX Tracer manual before attempting this repair. If you're uncomfortable with mechanical work, RC Model Shop can recommend experienced local technicians who specialise in RC repairs.
- Will this housing work with my brushless FTX Tracer upgrade? — Yes, this housing is fully compatible with both brushed and brushless FTX Tracer models. The front gearbox is a mechanical component that functions identically regardless of motor type, so upgrading to a brushless motor will not require a different gearbox housing.
- How long does the gearbox housing typically last? — With proper maintenance and careful driving, the gearbox housing should last many seasons of regular use. Heavy bashing, jumps, or crashes can damage the housing prematurely. Regular inspection and prompt replacement of any damaged component will ensure your Tracer continues to perform reliably.
- What tools do I need to install this front gearbox housing? — You will need standard RC tools including hex keys (Allen wrench set), a small screwdriver, and possibly a gear puller to remove the old housing. Consult your FTX Tracer manual or online guides for the complete tool list and step-by-step installation instructions.
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 FRONT GEARBOX TOP HOUSING & TOP PLATE FTX9701 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: FTX9701
- Part Type: Chassis Spares - Front Gearbox Housing
- Component: Front Gearbox Top Housing & Top Plate Assembly
- Scale: 1/16
- EAN Code: 5056135730232
- Compatible Models: FTX Tracer 1/16 RTR Monster Truck (all colours), FTX Tracer 1/16 Brushless RTR Monster Truck (all colours), FTX Tracer 1/16 RTR Truggy (all colours)
- Specific Compatible Model Numbers: FTX5576O, FTX5576R, FTX5576B, FTX5576O-Bundle, FTX5576R-Bundle, FTX5576B-Bundle, FTX5596Y, FTX5596B, FTX5596R, FTX5577O, FTX5577R, FTX5577G, FTX5577O-Bundle, FTX5577R-Bundle, FTX5577G-Bundle
- Available Colours: Orange, Red, Blue, Yellow, Green
- Included in Box: FTX Tracer Front Gearbox Top Housing & Top Plate assembly
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.
- Depending on what you choose at checkout, your order will usually be delivered either the next working day or within 2 working days. For next day delivery please place your order before 2:00pm. Orders are dispatched Monday to Friday only. Some items may take a little longer and if that is the case we will always show the expected delivery time on the product page.
- 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.
- As soon as your order is on its way we will send you a tracking number by email. If you provide your mobile number at checkout we will also send delivery updates straight to your phone so you can keep an eye on progress.
- 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.
