Sidewinder Extralight ERGAL Crown 32 teeth 16.8 mm for Hypercar

Precision to the millimetre: the Sidewinder NSR Extralight ERGAL 32T crown gear for Hypercar

Within the NSR spare parts catalogue, the Extralight series crown gears hold a prominent position among the most valued transmission components by club and competition drivers. This 32-tooth unit with a pitch of 16.8 mm is specifically designed for the Hypercar range in Sidewinder configuration — that is, with the motor positioned parallel to the rear axle — and its design aims to achieve a very specific goal: to extract maximum performance from the drivetrain without adding unnecessary mass.

Function and performance

The crown gear is the final link in the kinematic chain that converts the motor's rotation into movement of the rear wheels. In a Sidewinder system, its correct selection in terms of tooth count and outer diameter determines both the gear ratio — and therefore the top speed and acceleration — as well as the height of the motor assembly relative to the chassis.

With 32 teeth and an outer diameter of 16.8 mm, this crown gear offers a mature balance between cornering traction and straight-line speed, particularly suitable for mixed layouts where immediate response is required at the exit of corners without sacrificing top speed on long straights.

The Extralight surname is not just marketing: the reduction of rotating mass on the rear axle decreases the system's inertia, allowing the motor to reach its optimal working range sooner and respond more agilely to changes in acceleration. On track, this translates into cleaner corner exits and a greater sense of control from the controller.

Material and manufacturing: CNC machined ERGAL

NSR uses ERGAL — high-strength aluminium commonly used in aerospace and motorsport applications — to ensure that the weight reduction does not compromise durability. The CNC machining process from solid bar ensures consistent tooth geometry piece by piece, resulting in smooth engagement with the pinion and a transmission free from play and parasitic noise.

The anodised finish protects the surface against corrosion and wear from friction, extending the component's lifespan even during long competition sessions.

Compatibility and installation

This crown gear is designed for NSR Hypercar models in Sidewinder configuration. To ensure a correct fit and harmonious meshing, NSR recommends pairing it with the pinions from the 71XX series in their catalogue. Using a pinion with a different pitch or from an incompatible source may cause vibrations, premature wear, and loss of efficiency in the transmission.

Installation does not require special tools beyond those commonly used in preparing a 1/32 slot car: a good crown gear puller and checking the lateral play with the pinion before securing the assembly are the key steps to ensure an optimal result.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Not checking the play between crown and pinion: excessive tightening causes premature wear; too much play produces noise and power loss.
• Mixing incompatible pinion series: always respect the 71XX series recommended by NSR for this crown gear.
• Ignoring motor alignment: in a Sidewinder configuration, any angular deviation of the motor relative to the rear axle is amplified in the crown and pinion, accelerating wear.
• Not cleaning the crown gear periodically: lubricant residue and accumulated tyre dust between the teeth reduce engagement efficiency.

Frequently asked questions

Is this crown gear compatible with all NSR models or only with the Hypercar range?

According to NSR information, this crown gear is specifically designed for the Hypercar range models in Sidewinder configuration. Before installing it on another model, check that the pitch and outer diameter are compatible with the corresponding chassis housing.

What pinions should I use with this crown gear?

NSR recommends the pinions from the 71XX series in their catalogue to ensure correct engagement and prolonged lifespan. Using pinions from another series or with a different pitch may compromise the performance and durability of the transmission.

What real advantage does ERGAL offer over plastic in a crown gear?

Anodised ERGAL offers significantly higher wear resistance than plastic, especially in long sessions or with high-power motors. Additionally, it maintains tooth geometry for a longer time, resulting in a more consistent and predictable transmission throughout the component's lifespan.

What gear ratio do I get with a 32-tooth crown gear?

The gear ratio depends on the number of teeth of the pinion it is paired with. Dividing the teeth of the crown gear by those of the pinion gives you the ratio. A higher ratio results in more acceleration and lower top speed; a lower ratio results in higher top speed and less acceleration. The exact optimal value depends on the layout and the motor used.

Do I need to lubricate the crown gear?

A very small amount of specific slot transmission lubricant applied to the teeth can reduce wear and noise. Avoid excess: leftover lubricant attracts dust and debris that ultimately harm engagement.

How often should I check or replace the crown gear?

There is no fixed interval: it depends on the intensity of use, the motor employed, and track conditions. Check it periodically for wear on the tooth flanks or excessive play with the pinion. In competition, many drivers inspect it at the end of each day.

The NSR Sidewinder Extralight 32-tooth crown gear (ref. NSR5932, 16.8 mm) is a precision CNC-machined ERGAL component engineered for NSR Hypercar slot car models. Its ultra-lightweight construction minimizes rotational inertia on the rear axle, delivering sharper acceleration and smoother power transfer in 1/32 scale slot racing. Anodised for durability and corrosion resistance, it pairs with NSR 71XX series pinions for optimal meshing. An essential upgrade for club racers and competitive slot enthusiasts seeking reliable, high-efficiency sidewinder drivetrain performance.