Sidewinder Extralight ERGAL Crown Gear 34 teeth 16.8 mm for Hypercar

The NSR Sidewinder crown that makes a difference in the Hypercar range

Within the NSR spare parts catalogue, the Extralight series occupies a special place: machined parts with precision tolerances for enthusiasts who do not want to leave anything to chance in their 1/32 slot car builds. This transverse crown with 34 teeth and 16.8 mm pitch is specifically designed for Sidewinder configurations —motor parallel to the rear axle— in the Hypercar chassis range.

Function and performance

The crown is the final link in the transmission: it receives the motion from the pinion and converts it into traction on the axle. In competitive slot racing, any inaccuracy in its geometry translates directly into vibration, noise, and loss of efficiency. The NSR Extralight series eliminates these problems from the root thanks to two key factors:

• ERGAL Material: aerospace alloy aluminium, with a strength-to-weight ratio far superior to conventional plastic. It withstands intensive track use without deforming or losing dimensional precision over time.
• CNC Machining: each tooth is milled with numerical control, ensuring consistent geometry throughout the piece. The result is a smooth mesh with the pinion, without play or hard spots that cause premature wear.

The reduction of mass on the rear axle —compared to plastic or heavier metal crowns— decreases rotational inertia. This is clearly noticeable in throttle response: the car reacts faster and recovers speed more smoothly after braking.

Compatibility

This crown is designed for NSR models in the Hypercar range with Sidewinder configuration. The 16.8 mm pitch determines the centre-to-centre distance relative to the pinion, so it is essential to verify that the chassis accommodates this measurement before installation. To achieve optimal technical synergy, NSR recommends pairing it with pinions from the 71XX series.

Assembly and preparation

The assembly does not require special tools, but it is advisable to pay attention to some details to get the most out of the part:

• Ensure that the rear axle is perfectly aligned before adjusting the crown, to avoid lateral stresses that accelerate wear.
• Check the play between the crown and pinion: too tight generates friction and heat; too loose causes noise and gear skipping. A small perceptible play when turning by hand is correct.
• Apply a minimal amount of specific slot transmission lubricant to the teeth, especially during the initial running sessions.

Common mistakes

• Confusing the pitch: before ordering, confirm that your Hypercar chassis accepts the 16.8 mm pitch. NSR offers this crown in different pitches; choosing the wrong one prevents installation or results in poor gearing.
• Mixing incompatible pinion series: although the crown fits physically, a combination outside specifications increases wear and reduces transmission efficiency.
• Over-tightening the fixing screw: ERGAL is strong, but excessive torque can damage the fit. Tighten securely, not forcefully.

Frequently asked questions

Is this crown suitable for any NSR Sidewinder chassis?

Not necessarily. It is specifically designed for the Hypercar range with Sidewinder configuration and 16.8 mm pitch. Other NSR Sidewinder chassis may require a different pitch. Always check your chassis specifications before placing an order.

Which pinions are compatible with this crown?

NSR recommends pairing it with pinions from the 71XX series to ensure efficient transmission and balanced wear between both parts.

How many teeth is it advisable to use on track?

The number of teeth on the crown determines the gear ratio along with the pinion. A 34-tooth crown offers a relatively long development, suitable for tracks with long straights where top speed is desired. In technical and short circuits, a crown with fewer teeth may be preferable for better acceleration.

What advantage does ERGAL provide over a plastic crown?

ERGAL offers greater dimensional rigidity, preventing the crown from deforming under load. Additionally, CNC machining ensures a more precise tooth geometry than injection moulding of plastic, resulting in smoother and quieter gearing, and a longer lifespan for the transmission assembly.

Does this crown require lubrication?

Yes. Although anodised ERGAL has good sliding properties, applying a minimal amount of specific slot transmission lubricant to the teeth prolongs the life of both the crown and the pinion, and maintains mechanical efficiency over time.

Is this crown suitable for club racing use?

Yes. The NSR Extralight series is aimed precisely at competitors looking to extract maximum performance from their setup. Check that your championship regulations allow the use of machined aluminium crowns before using it in official races.

The NSR Sidewinder Extralight 34-tooth crown (16.8 mm pitch) is a CNC-machined ERGAL aluminium gear engineered for NSR Hypercar 1/32 slot car models. Designed to minimize rotational inertia and maximize transmission efficiency, it delivers instant throttle response and consistent power delivery on the track. Compatible with NSR 71XX series pinions, this lightweight precision component is the go-to upgrade for club racers and performance-oriented hobbyists seeking a smoother, faster and more durable drivetrain.