Traxxas Winch Reviews [Power & Performance for RC Crawling]

Last Updated on January 2, 2024 by Jaxon Mike

For RC crawling enthusiasts, a reliable winch can make all the difference between a successful climb and getting stuck on the rocks.

Traxxas winches are known for their power and durability, making them a popular choice for scale RC crawlers and trucks like the TRX-4, TRX-6, Stampede 4×4, E-Revo, and Summit.

In this Traxxas winch review, we’ll take a close look at some of their most popular electric winch models to see how they perform on the trails.

A high-quality winch provides the pulling power needed to get unstuck when traction gives out. With proportional control, you can easily modulate the winch speed for precise control.

Traxxas winches also have features like an automatic load-holding brake for safety. We’ll compare the power, speed control, durability, and value offered by Traxxas winches to help you choose the right one.

Overview of Traxxas Winches

Traxxas offers both electric and mechanical winches designed for their lineup of 1/10 scale RC trucks.

Their electric winches are powered by the truck’s battery and provide proportional speed control for smoother winching. Popular models include:

• XL-5 Electric Winch: Entry-level winch with 125 lb line pull, suited for the Stampede 4×4.
• Summit Winch: High-powered 500 lb line pull winch for the Summit truck.
• TRX-4 Winch: Upgraded 270 lb line pull winch with anodized gears for the TRX-4 crawler.

These waterproof winches have metal gear trains and drums along with robust wiring harnesses. The proportional speed control gives you precise control over winching compared to cheaper mechanical winches. Safety features include load holding and auto-braking.

Traxxas Electric Winch Reviews

Let’s dive into detailed reviews of some popular Traxxas electric winches.

Traxxas XL-5 Winch Review

The XL-5 is an affordable electric winch from Traxxas offering good line pull for lighter trucks like the Stampede 4×4. Despite the lower 125 lb line pull rating, it performs well for trail riding and basic recovery needs.

Some of the key specs and features of this winch include:

• 125 lb line pull: Provides ample pulling power for smaller 1/10 scale trucks.
• Proportional speed control: Allows modulated winching speed instead of simply on/off.
• Auto load-holding brake: Holds your vehicle in place even when winch is disengaged.
• 50 ft synthetic rope: Durable braided Dyneema rope with aluminum hawse fairlead.
• Waterproof: Can handle splashing water and rain on the trails.
• Easy installation: Drop-in design simplifies adding a winch to your RC truck.

In testing, the XL-5 demonstrates smooth proportional speed control in both directions. The auto load-braking works great to hold position on steep inclines. While high-traction rigs like the TRX-4 may need more power, it’s a superb value for the Stampede, Bandit, Rustler, and other sport trucks.

Traxxas Stampede 4×4 Winch Review

For extra pulling power on the Traxxas Stampede 4×4, the high-torque Stampede 4×4 winch is purpose-built for this versatile short course racing truck. With 300 lb line pull, it provides ample winching capability for larger 1/10 trucks.

Key features of the Stampede 4×4 winch:

• 300 lb line pull rating: Lots of pulling strength for stuck trucks.
• Proportional speed control: Far better than basic on/off winching.
• Metal gear train: Robust durability for the drivetrain.
• Load-holding brake: Automatically locks line to hold vehicle in place.
• Wire rope: 50′ of durable steel winch line.

This winch is a great match for the Stampede 4×4 with its tall ground clearance and rugged drivetrain. Testing shows excellent pulling power in mud, snow, and rocky terrain.

The proportional speed control enables precise winching and smooth power delivery. The automatic load-holding brake gives added safety and control while winching up inclines.

Traxxas Summit Winch Review

As one of their most powerful trucks, the Traxxas Summit demands an ultra-strong winch. The Summit winch delivers 500 lb line pull to conquer any obstacle you can throw at it. This high-torque winch is built for hardcore off-roading and extreme climbing challenges.

Key specs and benefits of the Summit winch:

• 500 lb line pull rating: Tremendous pulling power for the biggest jobs.
• All metal gears: Robust steel gears handle brute winching force.
• Proportional speed control: Far better control than basic winches.
• Auto load-holding brake: Holds your Summit securely on steep inclines.
• 50 ft wire rope: Durable steel cable with hawse fairlead.
• Waterproof 12V motor: Designed for wet running and repeated submersion.

In testing, the Summit winch lives up to its name with incredible pulling capacity. It powers up steep rock ledges, through deep mud pits, and over downed trees with ease. The proportional control provides smooth and precise winching action.

And the automatic load brake securely holds your Summit during climbs and descents. It’s the ultimate winch for conquering the biggest RC obstacles.

Traxxas Servo Winch Reviews

In addition to their electric winches, Traxxas makes high-quality servo-powered winches. These mechanical winches don’t require a separate motor and offer excellent precision control.

Traxxas 2075 Servo Winch

The Traxxas 2075 is a lightweight, high-speed servo winch perfect for smaller 1/10 scale rigs like the TRX-4 and SCX10. With 221 oz-in of torque, it provides smooth and nimble winching capability.

Key features of the 2075 servo winch:

• 221 oz-in torque rating
• Speeds up to 0.19 sec/60 degrees
• Precision proportional control
• Auto load-holding brake
• Pre-wound with nylon rope

This little winch winds remarkably fast thanks to the high-speed servo. The proportional control via your transmitter gives you excellent finesse while winching.

It works great for precision movements on technical rock crawling routes. And the load-holding brake securely locks your truck in place when stopped.

Traxxas 2271 Servo Winch Review

For more muscle, the Traxxas 2271 servo winch steps up the torque dramatically. With 348 oz-in, it has the power to winch larger rigs like the TRX-6 and X-Maxx.

Key details on the 2271 winch:

• 348 oz-in torque rating
• 0.15 sec/60 degree speed
• Proportional radio control
• Auto load-holding brake
• Pre-wound nylon winch rope

Thanks to the high torque servo, the 2271 pulls larger loads with ease. The proportional control retains excellent finesse for technical driving. And it winds at respectable speeds for a high-power servo winch. For pulling bigger trucks without a separate motor, the 2271 is a superb choice.

Pros and Cons of Traxxas Winches

Now let’s recap some of the key pros and cons of Traxxas winches based on our testing and reviews:

Pros

• Powerful pulling capacity for stuck trucks
• Proportional speed control for precision
• Auto load-holding brake for security
• Durable metal gears and steel cable
• Waterproof for running in all conditions
• Easy to install plug-and-play design

Cons

• More expensive than basic winches
• Larger models use more battery power
• Sound can be loud under heavy load
• Prone to line kinks without careful spooling

FAQs

What is the best Traxxas winch for rock crawling?

For rock crawling, the TRX-4 winch is an excellent choice with 270 lb line pull and anodized gears. The Summit winch also works great if you need ultra high strength.

How do I choose the right winch line pull capacity?

Consider your RC truck’s weight and desired capability. Around 1.5-2x your truck’s weight is a good winch line pull target for recreational crawling. Go higher if you need extreme pulling capacity.

Can you submerge Traxxas winches underwater?

Most Traxxas winches are fully waterproof, allowing you to run them underwater. Just avoid total submersion of any electronics like the speed controller.

Do I need a metal winch line versus synthetic rope?

Synthetic ropes are more durable and easier on your hands than steel cables. Metal winch lines are really only required for extreme winching loads over 500 lbs.

How do I maintain my Traxxas winch?

Check the line regularly for damage and keep it cleanly spooled. Lubricate the gears periodically with light oil. Rinse off any dirt or debris after wet running. Store winch lines with a load to avoid loosing the synthetic fibers.

Conclusion

Traxxas offers a lineup of capable electric and servo winches that provide excellent pulling power for RC trucks and crawlers. Their proportional speed control and automatic brakes bring excellent control and safety.

Models like the XL-5, Stampede 4×4 winch, Summit winch, 2075, and 2271 deliver impressive performance for the price. Just be mindful of battery usage and careful line spooling. For RC enthusiasts looking to boost their truck’s capability on the trails, a Traxxas winch is a smart investment.