5mm vs. 1/8"

[RC-Monster Mike]

First of all - Welcome to the forum!

Now, for the answer: The 5mm shaft has it's advantages and disadvantages. The advantage is it's strength. The disadvantage is the pinion gear availability (difficult to get and expensive when you do get them). If you have an average weight truck and want to run on 12 cells, the 1/8" shaft will hold up fine. If you have a heavy truck and want to run 14+ cells, I recommend the 5mm shaft size. I personally run the 8L with an 1/8" shaft and haven't had any trouble, but I have seen a 9L with 14 cells snap a 1/8" shaft (the user tends to be hard on his vehicles as well). Basically, if you don't romp your truck, the 1/8" shaft holds up well, but I recommend the 5mm shaft for anything over 12 cells.