Are Traxxas RC Cars Waterproof?

Last Updated on January 2, 2024 by Jaxon Mike

Remote control (RC) cars have become incredibly popular over the years as both hobby-grade and toy-grade models. Traxxas is one of the leading manufacturers of RC cars and is well-known for their high performance vehicles.

A common question that arises with RC cars, especially if you plan to run them through mud, puddles or other wet conditions is: are Traxxas RC cars waterproof?

What Does Waterproof Mean for an RC Car?

When discussing whether an RC car is waterproof, there are differing definitions of what exactly “waterproof” entails. Here are some general guidelines:

• Fully waterproof – The entire car can be fully submerged in water with no issues. This usually requires extensive waterproofing efforts.
• Splashproof – The car can handle splashes of water and brief encounters with puddles or wet ground. But it cannot be fully submerged.
• Water-resistant – The car can handle very light water contact but is not built for puddles, mud or submersion. Prolonged wet operation will cause issues.

Most RC enthusiasts would agree that for a car to be considered truly waterproof, it needs to handle full submersion without immediately taking on water or sustaining water damage. Splashproof or water-resistant cars can still get wet under the right circumstances.

Traxxas Waterproof Offerings

Traxxas offers several RC car models with waterproofing features:

Traxxas Summit

The 1/10 scale Traxxas Summit is advertised as being fully waterproof. It comes sealed against the elements from the factory. The Summit is meant for driving through streams, mud and rough terrain without worrying about water getting inside. This makes it a top choice for RC enthusiasts who want maximum water protection.

Traxxas Slash Series

The 1/10 scale 2WD and 4WD Slash models are listed as “waterproof” by Traxxas. But there are some caveats. While the electronics are sealed, the Slash models do not actually come waterproofed from the factory. You need to apply marine-grade grease to the metal components to help create a seal. So with some additional waterproofing efforts, the Slash can handle wet conditions. But it is not fully waterproof out of the box.

Traxxas Rustler

The Traxxas Rustler is advertised as having a “waterproof electronics compartment” meaning the radio gear inside should be protected from water intrusion. However, the mechanical components are not sealed. So while brief splashes may be okay, the Rustler cannot be fully submerged. It sits in the splashproof category when stock.

Making a Traxxas RC Car Waterproof

For Traxxas models that don’t come fully waterproofed from the factory, it is possible to add water protection with some modifications:

• Seal any openings with marine-grade grease, silicone sealant or rubber gaskets
• Enclose the electronics in a waterproof case or balloon
• Coat exposed metal parts in corrosion inhibitor
• Waterproof the motor by sealing the wire opening
• Replace stock bearings with sealed, marine-grade bearings

With careful waterproofing of all entry points, even Traxxas cars not advertised as waterproof can gain additional water resistance. Just don’t expect to make them fully submersible.

Are Stock Traxxas Batteries Waterproof?

The stock battery packs that come with Traxxas RC cars are typically NiMH or NiCad packs. These stock batteries are not waterproof themselves. Getting the battery compartment wet can damage the battery.

To properly waterproof a Traxxas vehicle, you’ll need a fully sealed, waterproof LiPo battery. Or you can try enclosing the stock battery in a balloon or waterproof case. But even then, exposure to water can be risky.

Precautions for Running Waterproof Traxxas RC Cars

If you do plan to frequently run a Traxxas vehicle in wet conditions, keep these precautions in mind:

• Avoid submerging any electronics, even if waterproof
• Rinse the car off with freshwater after use to prevent corrosion
• Inspect seals and bearings regularly for leaks
• Let the car fully dry out before storing it
• Be careful of motors overheating from water resistance
• Consider waterproofing any parts that weren’t factory sealed

While waterproof Traxxas RC cars can safely handle water, you still need to practice proper maintenance and care to keep them running. Take steps to minimize long-term water damage.

Are Older Traxxas Models Waterproof?

Traxxas began introducing increased waterproofing in many models around 2006-2007. Older Traxxas RC cars from the 1990s and early 2000s were rarely intended for wet use. Their electronics compartments lack sealing, exposed metal parts would corrode, and the motors cannot handle water resistance.

So unfortunately earlier Traxxas models are not waterproof. Attempting to run them through puddles or mud would likely cause electrical shorts, corrosion and mechanical failure. Stick to dry conditions unless you want to attempt full waterproofing modifications.

Are Waterproof Traxxas RC Cars Fully Submersible?

A common questionRC enthusiasts have about waterproof Traxxas models is whether they can be fully submerged underwater. The short answer is maybe, but with precautions.

For RC cars to handle full underwater operation, all components need to be properly sealed including the electronics, engine/motor, and moving parts. No water can get inside anywhere. Traxxas touts the Summit as fully submersible, but other models may allow water intrusion if submerged.

Submerging an RC car, even waterproof ones, brings inherent risks including:

• Water pressure at depth can push past seals and gaskets
• Electronics may fail if water seeps into compartments
• Motors may overheat or lock up underwater
• Metal parts can corrode over time from submersion
• Saltwater is more conductive and poses electrocution risk

Before attempting to run any RC car underwater, apply corrosion inhibitor spray thoroughly inside and out. Use additional marine-grade grease on all seals and bearings. Enclose electronics in waterproof balloons or cases. And use new sealed batteries.

Inspect closely for leaks after testing underwater operation. Any moisture inside can lead to long-term problems. Limit submersion time to avoid overheating motors. And rinse the car with freshwater after use.

While possible, fully submerging RC cars underwater significantly increases the risks even with precautions taken. Better to consider most waterproof Traxxas cars as splashproof rather than submarine-ready.

Do Traxxas RC Cars Float?

Given their water resistance, a common question is whether Traxxas RC cars can float on water. The simple answer is no – none of the models are designed to act as boats. The tires and weight distribution are optimized for dirt driving, not flotation.

That said, some enthusiastic owners have modified their Traxxas vehicles to get them floating by:

• Adding large paddle wheels instead of tires
• Affixing pool noodles for extra buoyancy
• Waterproofing the entire chassis so it won’t sink
• Using foam inserts to displace water in compartments

With these modifications, it is possible to get certain Traxxas RC cars floating and able to drive across calm waters. The Summit is a popular candidate given its ample ground clearance. But it requires significant effort to convert one for aquatic use.

Out of the box, no Traxxas RC car will float well or be maneuverable on water. While they can withstand splashes and brief immersion, they are ultimately designed as dirt machines. Any lake or wet driving will require a boat ramp or shallow entry/exit point nearby.

Typical Waterproofing Limitations

While waterproof Traxxas RC cars allow wet weather bashing, there are some limitations to their water protection abilities:

• Not fully sealed – Many models require additional user-installed gaskets and grease to be waterproof.
• Electronics not enclosed – The electronics have water-resistant seals but are openly exposed rather than in a sealed case.
• Motors can overheat – Prolonged underwater use can cause motors to overheat without proper airflow.
• Saltwater damage – Saline water conducts electricity better and can more easily corrode parts.
• Old grease or seals leads to leaks – Over time, the protective grease and seals can wear out and allow water intrusion.
• Bearings and differentials not marine-grade – Typical RC car parts like bearings are not built to withstand constant submersion.
• Batteries must be waterproofed – The stock NiMH batteries won’t last if they get wet. Must upgrade to a waterproof LiPo.

While Traxxas waterproof cars can withstand splashes and brief water encounters, the limitations mean you cannot treat them like a submarine. Reasonable wet precautions are still required.

Maintaining Waterproof Traxxas RC Cars

To keep a waterproof Traxxas RC car running strong, follow this maintenance regimen:

• Inspect seals and grease before and after wet use
• Replace seals or apply fresh grease whenever compromised
• Rinse the car with clean water after muddy/salty conditions
• Remove wheels & tires to clean out debris and moisture
• Frequently oil metal components and moving parts
• Check for signs of corrosion and treat affected areas
• Let car fully dry out after use before storing
• Run car for a few minutes after use to expel moisture
• Use air compressor to blow out any lingering water
• Consider marine-grade upgrades for bearings, etc.
• Check electronics for moisture and clean any detected

With diligent inspection, cleaning and corrosion prevention, a well maintained waterproof Traxxas car can enjoy years of wet weather bashing. Don’t neglect maintenance just because it’s waterproof.

FAQs About the Waterproof Features of Traxxas RC Cars

Can I run my Traxxas RC car in the rain?

Models like the Summit and Slash are fine for use in light-moderate rain. Just avoid submerging them fully underwater and rinse out any collected water when done.

What grease should I use to waterproof my Traxxas RC car?

Look for a high-quality marine grease designed specifically for RC waterproofing. Apply it thoroughly on seals, bearings, and any potential water entry points.

My Traxxas RC car got soaked. How do I dry it out?

Remove the wheels/tires and battery first. Use an air compressor or canned air to blow out standing water. Let the car sit for 24 hours in a dry room to fully air dry before running it again.

Is it safe to drive my Slash in shallow water?

With proper greasing and waterproofing, the Traxxas Slash can handle brief exposure to shallow water. Avoid submerging it fully and rinse it off after to be safe.

Can I run my Traxxas in the snow?

Yes, Traxxas RC cars equipped for water can generally handle snow thanks to their weatherproofing. Just avoid getting snow and meltwater into the electronics.

Conclusion

Waterproofing allows RC enthusiasts to bash their cars through wet, muddy and unpredictable conditions. Traxxas offers excellent waterproof models like the Summit for maximum protection. Other cars like the Slash provide decent water resistance with additional user modifications.

Just make sure to understand the limits of any waterproof claims, and take steps to prevent long-term water damage. With reasonable precautions, a waterproof Traxxas car can deliver wet weather RC thrills.