Seems like there is something wrong with my ESC or Motor according to Castle so I'm probably going to exchange it.

Do you guys have a suggestion for an alternative? There's obviously the MAX8/4274 but anything else?

I've run Tekin RX8 Gen2, Castle MMX(&others), & HW RTR ESC's, & I prefer the RX8.
RX8 Gen2
Pros: better feel, 220amp, size, fan always on(or auto on), Hotwire
Cons: price, not waterproof, no cell auto detect(you have to change cell count, I only run 6s so no issue), must solder
I'm running the RX8 Gen2 w/the T8 Gen2 1350 kv truggy motor in my EB48.3, & it is very smooth, much smoother from the start.

Non-waterproof is a deal breaker unfortunately. The no-auto cell detect would be annoying as well since i run 4S and 6S.

Having a newb moment. I’m trying install some Badland 3.8s on my ET48.3. When I crank down on the wheel hexes, none of wheels spin freely. When I back off the hexes slightly, the wheels roll more freely as they should. However, I don’t want to run loose wheel hexes on my truck. What am I missing?

the original lighweight tekno hex might be too thin. you might make it works with adding a washer between the hex and the wheel. it has to be the right size. you could even try to cut it out from a plastic sheet ! ( yeah i already did that once ! )

You’re exactly right. I checked and the wheels are rubbing the hubs when cranked down all the way. I’ll shim the wheels somehow. Thanks.

You can get some wider hubs like these. They’re 1mm wider than stock
https://www.teknorc.com/shop/tkr5071...et-wpins-2pcs/

Or many others I know that HB D8t and team associated rc8t hubs also fit

https://www.amainhobbies.com/hb-raci...bs67804/p54590

https://www.amainhobbies.com/team-as...c81319/p493893

Thanks for the tip chainsaw. I just realized that I have new leftover wheel hexes from my Pro MT 4x4 because I bought the Associated extended hubs per your recommendation in that forum. Works perfect on the ET48.3.

I have to say I like the DBoots Backflips mounted on my MT410 better than these Badlands on the ET48.3. I didn’t realize how much smaller the Badlands were compared to the Backflips. I haven’t tested traction yet between the 2 sets but I suspect the Backflips will do just fine.

Actually these Pro MT wheel hexes might just be a temporary solution. The cross pins on those Teknos are much more substantial. Im running 6S on my ET48.3. I’m going to order those tkr5071 hubs.

Sorry to hear of your issues. I have been running a MMX/2200kv in my basher buggy for over a year now. Dozens of bash sessions. A hundred plus 4s packs through it with a few 6s for speed runs... never an issue. Fan still works. Granted I'm running a waterproof servo at 6.0v so IDK if that is why my fan hasn't failed.