Titanium on the rear axle: less weight, more precision on the track
When looking to reduce unsprung mass and lower the total weight of the rear end, titanium is one of the most valued options among competitive slot car tuners. This axle from Sloting Plus, with a diameter of 2.38 mm (3/32'') and length of 52.5 mm, offers a lightweight alternative to conventional steel, weighing just 1 gram.
Main features
- Material: high-purity titanium, precision calibrated.
- Diameter: 2.38 mm (3/32'').
- Length: 52.5 mm.
- Weight: 1 gram per unit.
- Finish: ends with rough texture from cutting, for immediate visual identification.
- Contents: bag with 1 unit.
Behaviour and performance
Titanium is a paramagnetic material: it is virtually non-magnetic, which is crucial in setups where magnets are used or where any unwanted magnetic interference in the rear end is to be avoided. Additionally, its lightness compared to steel helps reduce the rotational inertia of the axle, allowing for a more agile response in acceleration and braking.
Identifying a titanium axle without disassembling it is straightforward: simply bring a magnet close. Since it does not magnetise, the magnet will not stick to the axle. Sloting Plus has also added a practical detail: the ends retain the rough-cut finish, visually distinguishing it from a polished steel axle.
Assembly and preparation
Being a calibrated axle, it fits directly into standard 3/32'' brackets and bearings. No additional preparation is required apart from the usual checks for concentricity and verifying the fit with the chosen crown gear and pinion. As with any precision axle, it is recommended to clean the housing before assembly and ensure that the bearings are properly seated.
Who is this axle intended for?
This component is aimed at club tuners and drivers looking to fine-tune every gram of the car and explore the advantages of titanium over steel. It is also of interest to those working with configurations where the magnetic interaction of the axle may be a factor to control.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a titanium axle and a steel one?
The main difference is weight: titanium is considerably lighter than steel for the same diameter and length. Additionally, titanium is paramagnetic, meaning it does not magnetise, while steel does. This can influence the behaviour of the car depending on the type of grip magnet used.
How can I tell if a mounted axle is titanium?
The simplest way is to bring a magnet close to the axle: if it does not stick, it is titanium (paramagnetic). If the axle is not yet mounted, its lighter weight compared to a steel axle of the same size also gives it away. The rough finish on the ends that Sloting Plus maintains also facilitates visual identification.
Is it compatible with standard 3/32'' brackets and bearings?
Yes. With a diameter of 2.38 mm (3/32''), it is compatible with the housings and bearings that use this measurement, which is one of the most common in competitive slot racing.
How many units are included in the bag?
The bag contains 1 unit.
Is titanium more fragile than steel in the rear axle?
Titanium has an excellent strength-to-weight ratio, although it may behave differently than steel under very violent impacts. In normal club slot racing conditions, its durability is more than sufficient.
The Sloting Plus SP041152 is a calibrated titanium axle measuring 2.38 mm in diameter (3/32'') and 52.5 mm in length, weighing just 1 gram. Its paramagnetic nature makes it virtually non-magnetic, an advantage when controlling rear-axle magnetic behaviour in competitive slot car setups. The rough-cut finish on both ends allows for quick visual identification. Compatible with standard 3/32'' bearings and housings. Sold individually.