16d pinion. Ergal d8.5mm for 2mm axle

Tuned transmission with the Scaleauto Ergal pinion for 2 mm axle

The SC-1099E85 pinion from Scaleauto is a transmission component made from Ergal (a high-strength, lightweight aluminium alloy) with 16 teeth, an outer diameter of 8.5 mm, and designed to fit 2 mm axles. It is a common choice among tuners looking to reduce rotating mass without sacrificing durability.

Main features

• Number of teeth: 16
• Outer diameter: 8.5 mm
• Axle diameter: 2 mm
• Material: Ergal (high-strength aluminium alloy)
• Manufacturer: Scaleauto
• Reference: SC-1099E85

Function and performance

The pinion is the first link in the transmission chain: it receives the rotation from the motor and transfers it to the crown gear. The choice of the number of teeth and the material directly influences the gear ratio and the inertia of the drivetrain. Being made from Ergal, this pinion significantly reduces weight compared to steel or brass equivalents, resulting in a more agile motor response and cleaner acceleration from slow corners.

With 16 teeth and a diameter of 8.5 mm, it offers an intermediate gear ratio that must be combined with the appropriate crown gear depending on the circuit and the power of the motor used. The more teeth the pinion has in relation to the crown gear, the higher the top speed and the lower the available torque, and vice versa. Correctly adjusting this ratio is one of the key steps in preparing any slot car for competition.

Compatibility and installation

This pinion is designed for 2 mm axles, the most common diameter in most Sport (Scaleauto, Slot.it) and Universal (Scalextric, Ninco) slot cars. Before installation, it is advisable to ensure that the axle is perfectly clean and free of burrs to guarantee proper centring. The tightening of the set screw (if applicable) should be done with the pinion perfectly aligned with the crown gear to avoid vibrations and premature wear.

Combine it with crown gears from the Scaleauto range to ensure that the tooth module is the same and the engagement is smooth and precise.

Common mistakes

• Mixing pinion and crown gears of different modules: causes noise, accelerated wear, and loss of efficiency.
• Mounting the pinion off-centre relative to the axle: generates vibration and oscillation that is clearly noticeable on track.
• Not checking the play between pinion and crown gear: too tight creates friction, too loose causes rattling.
• Using the Ergal pinion in applications with very high-power motors without periodically checking for wear: Ergal is lightweight but softer than steel, so in very aggressive configurations, it is advisable to regularly check the condition of the teeth.

Frequently asked questions

What advantage does Ergal have over steel or brass in a pinion?

Ergal is a much lighter aluminium alloy than steel or brass. By reducing the mass of the pinion, the rotational inertia of the drivetrain is decreased, improving acceleration response and allowing the motor to operate more efficiently.

Which crown gears is this pinion compatible with?

To ensure proper engagement, the crown gear must have the same module as the pinion. Check the module specification in the Scaleauto catalogue and select a crown gear with the same value. Mixing different modules quickly deteriorates both parts.

Is it suitable for very powerful motors?

Ergal offers a good balance between lightness and strength for most club and regular competition applications. In configurations with very high-power motors, it is advisable to frequently check the condition of the teeth and consider using steel pinions if wear becomes excessive.

How is it installed correctly?

Insert the pinion onto the 2 mm axle ensuring it is aligned with the crown gear. Tighten the set screw (if it has one) with the appropriate torque, without over-tightening. Check that the play between the pinion and crown gear is correct before permanently gluing or securing the assembly.

Is this pinion suitable for axles with a diameter other than 2 mm?

No. This model is specifically designed for 2 mm axles. For 3/32" (2.38 mm) or other diameters, Scaleauto has specific references available.

The Scaleauto SC-1099E85 is a 16-tooth Ergal pinion gear with an 8.5 mm outer diameter, designed for 2 mm axles. Ideal for slot car racing setups requiring a lightweight yet durable transmission component. Compatible with Sport and Universal track systems, this pinion is a go-to choice for club racers and serious hobbyists looking to fine-tune their gear ratio and reduce rotational mass for sharper acceleration and smoother power delivery.