Can You Convert a Traxxas Slash 2WD to 4WD? (Short Answer: No)
Not practically. The Traxxas Slash 2WD and Slash 4X4 share the name and body style, but almost nothing in the drivetrain: the 4X4 has a different chassis with a centre driveshaft, a front differential in the front bulkhead, different arms, driveshafts and wheels with a different offset. Converting means replacing nearly the whole car, which costs more than buying a Slash 4X4. The electronics (ESC, motor, servo, receiver) and body are about the only parts that carry over. Here’s what differs and what to do instead.
By Kyle HilsonUpdated: October 20263 min read
What’s different between Slash 2WD and Slash 4X4?
| Part | Slash 2WD | Slash 4X4 | Swap? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chassis | Tub with open centre, no driveshaft tunnel | Chassis built around a centre driveshaft | Replace |
| Front drive | None: free-rolling front hubs | Sealed front differential in the front bulkhead | Replace |
| Centre drive | None | Centre driveshaft (and centre diff/slipper) | Add |
| Transmission | Rear transmission only | Transmission with front and rear outputs | Replace |
| Front arms, knuckles, driveshafts | Non-driven | Driven, with CV/driveshafts | Replace |
| Wheels | 2WD offsets | 4X4 offset | Replace |
| Shocks, camber links | 2WD versions | 4X4 versions | Replace |
| ESC, motor, servo, receiver | Same families | Same families | Carry over |
| Body | Slash body | Fits with the right mounts (Traxxas offers 2WD/4X4 clipless conversion kits) | Usually carry over |
Why converting costs more than buying
Buying the 4X4 chassis, transmission, front diff, centre driveshaft, arms, knuckles, driveshafts, shocks and wheels separately as spare parts adds up to more than the price of a complete Slash 4X4 RTR, which already includes electronics. You’d also be left with a box of 2WD parts. The common advice in the hobby is: keep the 2WD as it is, or sell it and buy a 4X4.
Better upgrades for a Slash 2WD
| Upgrade | What it improves |
|---|---|
| Brushless system (Velineon VXL-3s) | Speed and runtime; the most popular upgrade |
| Low-CG chassis conversion kit (Traxxas offers one for the 2WD) | Handling, less rolling; a factory way to change the chassis |
| Better tyres | Grip on your surface; the cheapest handling upgrade |
| Stronger steering servo | Precise steering with bigger tyres |
| Clipless body conversion | Quicker body changes, cleaner look |
| Shock oil and springs | Jumps and rough ground |
If you go brushless, gear for the terrain and watch temperatures; ESC protection codes are in Traxxas ESC blinking red.
2WD or 4X4: which should you have?
| Choose the 2WD if… | Choose the 4X4 if… |
|---|---|
| You want to learn car control and throttle discipline | You drive on grass, loose dirt or gravel |
| You like sliding and a playful car | You want easy, fast driving and stable jumps |
| You want cheaper parts and simpler maintenance | You plan a powerful brushless setup |
Selling and buying
- Clean the 2WD, include the manual and spare parts; complete RTRs sell best.
- Consider keeping your upgraded electronics (if compatible) to move to the 4X4.
- Look at the Slash 4X4 in brushed or VXL brushless versions, or used 4X4s with known history.
FAQ
Is there a 4WD conversion kit for the Slash 2WD?
No official one. Traxxas sells low-CG chassis and body conversion kits, but they don’t add four-wheel drive.
Can I use Slash 4X4 parts on a 2WD?
Some electronics and the body, yes; the drivetrain, chassis and suspension parts are different.
Is the Slash 2WD faster than the 4X4?
With the same power, the 4X4 usually puts it down better and is quicker on loose surfaces; the 2WD can be slightly lighter.
Is the 2WD Slash worth keeping?
Yes: it’s a great learner and basher. Upgrade the motor and tyres rather than trying to convert it.
More on this topic: the complete RC Cars guide covers the basics behind this article.
About 20 years in RC. Mostly boats in the NAVIGA Mini Eco Expert class, with many self-made parts; also a King Motor Baja 5B, a home-built electric plane, home-built nitro planes he has flown, and an RC helicopter. More about SwellRC
