[JERRY2KONE]

In fact this question has come up quite a few times in many posts here on RCM. Several weak points are designed into every R/C vehicle by the manufacturers for two reasons. One is to protect the components that are more valuable in your setup, such as the motor, ESC, and transmission. The other is so that you keep spending money replacing stuff, which in turn keeps them in business. You have to decide where you want the weak points to be in your setup. Something has to give somewhere.

IMHO The best place is in the slipper, but that does not mean that you have to install a cheapo slipper that will fail or melt on you every couple of runs. Plus it all depends on your powerplant, budget and how much money you want to throw at your vehicle. For my kids I just have them use stock stuff, because it is easy to replace, and cheap on the wallet for the most part. This is more for the learning experience on their part in taking things apart and putting them back together.

On the other hand if it is your wish to build a bulletproof rig, then you need to get some real good parts in your setup (entire drivetrain)and get rid of the plastic. There are plenty of after market hopups that are practically indestructable, but that is the price you pay if you want consistant bashing without having to replace stuff after every run. Especially when you are running high voltage setups 5S & 6S and up. Just think about it. That kind of power can break bones and really hurt you pretty easily, so how tough is your rig???