Small detail, big difference: aluminium set screws for rear axle
When preparing a slot car with care, every component matters. The Avant Slot aluminium set screws (ref. AV20410) are one of those pieces that go unnoticed until you understand what they do: centre the clamping forces on the rear axle so that the crown gear does not absorb lateral stresses or suffer deformations over time.
Function and performance
A poorly adjusted or inadequately material set screw can cause the clamping point to shift, generating uneven stresses on the crown gear or the axle itself. By manufacturing them in aluminium, Avant Slot achieves an optimal balance between lightness, surface hardness, and machinability, resulting in a firm grip without damaging the axle.
- Diameter: 2.38 mm (3/32)
- Material: aluminium
- Pack contents: 2 units
- Designed to centre the clamping forces of the rear axle
- Protect the crown gear from unnecessary stresses during assembly and running
Assembly and preparation
Assembly is straightforward but should be done with precision. Ensure that the set screw is aligned with the axle housing before tightening, thus avoiding marking the axle at an eccentric point. A small Allen screwdriver of the appropriate size is sufficient. Excessive force is not necessary: aluminium works well with moderate and even tightening.
Compatibility
These set screws are designed for rear axles of 3/32" (2.38 mm), a widely used measurement in competitive slot racing and preparation. It is the standard size used by Avant Slot in their own chassis and is found in numerous club and circuit setups.
Ideal for…
- Preparers and club drivers who regularly assemble or check their rear end.
- Enthusiasts looking to keep the crown gear in perfect condition for longer.
- Any setup with a 2.38 mm (3/32) rear axle that requires precise and durable clamping.
Common mistakes
The most common mistake is tightening the set screw directly onto the crown gear instead of onto the axle, or doing so without verifying that the assembly is well aligned. This concentrates the effort at an incorrect point and can damage the crown gear or create play with use. Using the appropriate set screws — like these aluminium ones — and following an orderly assembly process avoids most of these problems.
Frequently asked questions
What exactly is the purpose of a set screw on the rear axle?
The set screw is the screw that secures the crown gear (or the pinion, depending on the configuration) to the rear axle. Its function is to prevent the piece from rotating freely relative to the axle. A good set screw, well centred, distributes the clamping force evenly and protects both the axle and the crown gear.
Why is it important for it to be aluminium and not steel?
Aluminium is softer than steel, which means that in the case of excessive tightening, it is the set screw that yields before the axle. This protects the axle from permanent marks. Additionally, aluminium is lighter, which is always appreciated in a competitive setup.
Are they compatible with axles from other brands?
Yes, as long as the axle is 3/32" (2.38 mm) in diameter, which is the most common standard size in competitive slot racing. Check the diameter of your axle before installing them.
How many units are included in the pack?
The pack contains 2 units.
How often should I check or replace the set screws?
We recommend checking them at each maintenance session of the rear end. If you notice that the set screw has lost grip, has a worn head, or shows marks that prevent proper tightening, it is time to replace it. Due to their low cost, it is advisable to always have a spare in the toolkit.
Avant Slot AV20410 aluminium set screws (x2), 2.38 mm (3/32) diameter, designed to centre the clamping force on the rear axle and protect the crown gear from unnecessary stress. A must-have spare part for slot car preparation and club racing. Compatible with any 3/32" rear axle setup.