Starter Box Recommendations?
#1

I'm looking to get back into Nitro (planning on starting with a Serpent 750 Natrix), and I was just wondering what folks are using and recommend? Seems like they are slim pickings these days, with so many out of stock that I've seen online. Quite frankly, I'm surprised that Serpent never relaunched their PowerStart series. I never had any issues with the original one I used for my old Impulse which I just sold. The only reason I sold the PowerStart with it is that the line-up adapters I had on it were specific to the Impulse.
Anyway, any recommendations would be greatly appreciated. If it does both vertical and horizontal, even better - not that I would try to use the same exact box (might be tempted to get an SRX-8 GT down the road), but it might be convenient to get the same model to conveniently switch batteries between the two as needed.
Thanks!
Anyway, any recommendations would be greatly appreciated. If it does both vertical and horizontal, even better - not that I would try to use the same exact box (might be tempted to get an SRX-8 GT down the road), but it might be convenient to get the same model to conveniently switch batteries between the two as needed.
Thanks!
#3
Tech Initiate
#4

For 1/10 get the Hudy Startbox - probably the best one I've ever used. (works well with either NT1 or 747/748/750 etc) https://www.amainhobbies.com/hudy-1-...104400/p155359
For 1/8 get Sworks BB80 (same as Losi red one from 2.0 rtr kits) - I use it on my both buggies and serpent GT cars. https://www.amainhobbies.com/sworkz-...950001/p274929
Just stay away from xceed boxes... I tried both 1.10 and 1.8 didnt like any bit.
For 1/8 get Sworks BB80 (same as Losi red one from 2.0 rtr kits) - I use it on my both buggies and serpent GT cars. https://www.amainhobbies.com/sworkz-...950001/p274929
Just stay away from xceed boxes... I tried both 1.10 and 1.8 didnt like any bit.
#5

Thanks for the suggestions - as I noted above, it seems like the Hudy is out of stock at A-Main (not sure if that’s related to the general gripes I’ve been reading about XRay parts availability here in the US), and unfortunately, the Sworkz is showing as discontinued on A-Main’s site as well. Regardless, I’ll flag it for notification and be on the lookout at other outlets as well.
As I mentioned, it really would be nice if Serpent revived the PowerStart line - I never had any problems with my box, and for a company with a significant lineup of Nitro vehicles, it would just make sense to have a self-branded one.
As I mentioned, it really would be nice if Serpent revived the PowerStart line - I never had any problems with my box, and for a company with a significant lineup of Nitro vehicles, it would just make sense to have a self-branded one.
#7
Tech Apprentice

Is the Hudy less solid or reliable?
How about when it comes to all engines including the 21s in the 1/8 on roads?
BTW, are the Mugen boxes still the same as back in the day? I remember having a purple one for my MTX-2 a very long time ago.
How about when it comes to all engines including the 21s in the 1/8 on roads?
BTW, are the Mugen boxes still the same as back in the day? I remember having a purple one for my MTX-2 a very long time ago.
#9

Well, for what it’s worth my old PowerStart also had a Dual 540 design, which I never had a problem with... At least for the .12 engine on my Impulse. I would imagine that the larger motor can easily meet or exceed the potential of those two - at the end of the day, as long as they can get the job done and it’s well built, I don’t mind.
Now, if the box has just a single 540, I’d probably worry - lol.
Now, if the box has just a single 540, I’d probably worry - lol.
#10
Tech Regular

Deleted
Last edited by jgil089; 07-30-2019 at 02:31 AM. Reason: Wrong info
#11

Thanks for the suggestions - as I noted above, it seems like the Hudy is out of stock at A-Main (not sure if that’s related to the general gripes I’ve been reading about XRay parts availability here in the US), and unfortunately, the Sworkz is showing as discontinued on A-Main’s site as well. Regardless, I’ll flag it for notification and be on the lookout at other outlets as well.
As I mentioned, it really would be nice if Serpent revived the PowerStart line - I never had any problems with my box, and for a company with a significant lineup of Nitro vehicles, it would just make sense to have a self-branded one.
As I mentioned, it really would be nice if Serpent revived the PowerStart line - I never had any problems with my box, and for a company with a significant lineup of Nitro vehicles, it would just make sense to have a self-branded one.
#12

#14

I run an LRP starter box which can be used for 1/10 and GT8/off-road. Just 4 screws and the wheel rotates around. So one starter box fits all.
The HUDY is typically overpriced for what it is (it’s HUDY = overpriced! I mean they’ve just released a metal sweet tin for goodness sake
) and is limited because you then need 2 different boxes for 1/10 and another for GT8.
For what it’s worth I had an xceed box for several years before I started racing GT8 and used it for 1/10 and 1/8 - personally never had an issue with the wheel wearing out. All I did was lift up the wheel mechanism by using 2mm spacers under it. It’s because the wheel is a bit too low as standard so it can slip and wear out. Small adjustment to ensure proper engagement and no issues.
The HUDY is typically overpriced for what it is (it’s HUDY = overpriced! I mean they’ve just released a metal sweet tin for goodness sake

For what it’s worth I had an xceed box for several years before I started racing GT8 and used it for 1/10 and 1/8 - personally never had an issue with the wheel wearing out. All I did was lift up the wheel mechanism by using 2mm spacers under it. It’s because the wheel is a bit too low as standard so it can slip and wear out. Small adjustment to ensure proper engagement and no issues.
#15
Tech Apprentice

So is the Hudy not compatible with 1/8 GT? I thought they released an optional part to make it work.
Which boxes will do all on road 1/10-1/8?
Which boxes will do all on road 1/10-1/8?