The SIPI7513E pinion from Slot.it combines the brand's precision machining with the lightweight properties of Ergal —a high-strength aluminium alloy— to reduce rotational mass on the motor shaft and achieve immediate response in acceleration and braking. 13 teeth, 7.5 mm in diameter.
Ergal on the motor shaft: how the SIPI7513E pinion from Slot.it works
Within the Ergal spare parts family from Slot.it, the SIPI7513E pinion is one of the most valued components by tuners looking to get the most out of their 1:32 cars. Thirteen teeth, 7.5 mm in diameter, and a material that changes everything: Ergal, a high-strength aluminium alloy that drastically reduces weight compared to a conventional brass pinion.
Function and performance
The main advantage of Ergal in a motor pinion is the reduction of rotational mass. The lighter the assembly that rotates with the shaft, the faster the motor reacts to any trigger variation: the increase in revolutions is more lively and the braking is cleaner, as there is less inertia to stop. On track, this translates into more progressive and controllable acceleration and shorter, more predictable braking.
The 13-tooth gearing with a diameter of 7.5 mm provides a gear ratio suited for circuits with high-speed sections, where it is beneficial to extend the gear to maintain top speed without overloading the motor. Slot.it's CNC machining ensures a geometrically precise tooth profile, resulting in a smooth, quiet gear with minimal wear on the crown gear.
Compatibility and installation
The pinion is press-fitted onto the motor shaft. Before installing it, it is advisable to verify that the shaft diameter is appropriate to ensure a firm fit without play. When it comes to the crown gear to mesh with, it is essential to respect the tooth module to guarantee correct contact between the tooth flanks: always use crown gears of the same module as the pinion.
For alignment, Slot.it recommends using its specific adjustment tools, which allow centring the pinion relative to the crown gear and accurately adjusting the axle distance. Poor alignment shortens the lifespan of both components and generates vibrations that are transmitted to the chassis.
Installation and preparation: common mistakes
- Forcing the pinion cold: if the fit is too tight, slight heating of the pinion facilitates entry without damaging the Ergal.
- Not checking alignment with the crown gear: even a tenth of a millimetre misalignment causes noise and premature wear.
- Combining different modules: a pinion with a module of 0.5 does not mesh correctly with a crown gear of module 0.4. Always check module compatibility before installation.
- Excessive lubrication: Ergal works well with a minimal drop of lubricant at the contact point; excess attracts dirt and can affect the grip of the braids.
Frequently asked questions
What real advantage does Ergal offer over brass in a pinion?
Ergal weighs significantly less than brass. In a piece as small as a motor pinion, this mass difference has a disproportionate effect on rotational inertia: the motor responds faster, revs up sooner, and brakes more easily. This is a clearly noticeable improvement in cars with high-power motors.
Is this pinion compatible with any 1:32 slot motor?
Compatibility depends on the motor shaft diameter and the tooth module of the crown gear. Always check both parameters before purchasing. Slot.it specifies the shaft diameter for which this pinion is designed, so consult the official technical sheet or the brand's catalogue if you have any doubts.
What motor configurations is it compatible with: Sidewinder, Inline, or Anglewinder?
The 7.5 mm diameter makes it suitable for Sidewinder configurations (motor parallel to the rear axle) and Anglewinder configurations (motor angled relative to the rear axle), provided the crown gear used is of the correct module. For Inline configurations (motor in line with the rear axle), it is advisable to check the available space on the chassis.
How long does an Ergal pinion last compared to a brass one?
Ergal is a high-hardness alloy that maintains the tooth profile for many hours of running, especially when combined with good alignment and proper lubrication. Under normal club racing conditions, its lifespan is comparable to that of brass; in very high-revving motors, it may wear out slightly sooner if alignment is not maintained.
Do I need special tools to install it?
Slot.it offers specific adjustment tools for the installation and alignment of pinions and crown gears. They are not essential, but highly recommended if you seek precise tuning. For basic installation, a tool that allows for uniform axial pressure without damaging the Ergal or bending the shaft is sufficient.
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