HL gearbox options

[Chris-s]

Hi folks, first real post so be kind.

Recently I got a couple of 'spares or repairs' tanks for my son and myself, a Panther and a Tiger. The Panther needed a new tx, and the Tiger needed a complete new radio set. So, now they are both up and running, I'm frowning at the 'quality' of the metal gearboxes. Is there a general guide for improving these or any recommended replacements?

Cheers!

Chris

[jarndice]

Hallo Chris, The gearboxes come as I am sure you have noticed on mounting plates and this is one of two restrictions on the choice of Gearbox, the other being drive shaft length, Many parts are interchangeable between HENG LONG/TAIGEN/TORRO and to a lesser degree TAMIYA but the gearbox mounting plate on the HENG LONG Tiger 1 is not the same as the one on the TAIGEN Tiger 1, so you must make sure that you are buying the right gearbox for your make of Tiger 1, If your Tiger 1 is a TAIGEN I would suggest you go to
http://www.welshdragonmodels.com
you will see if you visit his site that he has the complete range although not all are in stock at any particular time. Unlike TAIGEN, HENG LONG do not have a reputation for the greatest metal boxes although the ones with nylon gears are surprisingly sturdy, the good news is that there is a large supply of after market suppliers out there and if you scroll down to the recommended dealers site you will get a feel for availability, certainly FORGEBEAR on e-bay should be able to sort out a gearbox for both your Panther and your Tiger 1
As to renovating them I have never bothered as the price of a decent replacement is, except for the "ETO" range quite affordable. "ETO" gearboxes are truly magnificent and incredibly strong BUT they are very costly. I hope that helps. shaun

[Chris-s]

Thanks for the reply, I shall have a look at those you mentioned.

Chris

[billpe]

As to renovating them I have never bothered as the price of a decent replacement is, except for the "ETO" range quite affordable. "ETO" gearboxes are truly magnificent and incredibly strong BUT they are very costly. I hope that helps. shaun

I assume you're talking about the ETO specific boxes? To fit the ETO ones you'd need to do some cutting up of a HL or Taigan hull. They're meant to drop into Tamiyas only. I'd also be super wary about dropping them into a HL plastic hull due to the screw layout, it would put allot of stress on the ABS, and HL ABS quality is hit and miss.