Vorteks Please share your thoughts!

[BrushlessHead]

Hello! I would love to get some insight from you all. I’m totally new to the RC world but my kids got a couple 1:18 RC toys as gifts and I’m totally hooked, looking to pick up something nice. Through some web forum research, YouTube reviews, and talking to my local hobby shop guys, I think I’ve settled on something in the Arrma 3S line. The problem is I can’t decide which model.

We’d mostly be using it on our driveway and yard, which is just under an acre. During the growing months, the lawn is decent and grass is 3” tall. We’ll also take it out to the school baseball diamonds (they’re not in great shape, don’t worry!) for some dirt use, and have a couple large church parking lots within a couple blocks for asphalt space.

As for driving expectations, it’s really just about having some fun zipping around the yard and doing some small jumps. I’ve been stuck working from home and will be for the foreseeable future, so would use it to get away from the computer and chill outside for a half hour here or there. Not really thinking of doing huge sends and flips. I like the idea of having ample power, but don’t really think I would be regularly doing crazy speed runs.

I like the idea of being in the 3S budget, but am open to being pointed in a different direction if a higher level model is really worth it. If initial or long term quality means I would have to spend more, I would in order to avoid purchasing something that requires immediate work to be happy with. I think I’ve narrowed my search down to the Vorteks and the Typhon. My reservation with the Typhon is really just whether the buggy can handle yard/grass driving. I had thought I was set on a Vorteks, then, until I read of a lot of issues around QC and low voltage cutoffs (not sure how legit any of these concerns are). If these aren’t really big problems and the electronics upgrades in the Vorteks are solid, I’m good.

If I can answer any questions from you all, please ask away. I appreciate any wisdom you can share and any recommendations you can make based on the type of use I have planned for the vehicle.

Thanks again!

 

[Velodromed]

Welcome! Glad you and your kids found a hobby to enjoy together. From what you described and all, seriously look at the big rock. It’s perhaps the most versatile of the 3s line. Very stable, fast and a blast to drive. G’luck and have a great rest of your week!

 

[RadioHacktive]

Good morrow Brushlesshead!

While I am setting myself up to get a Vorteks in the coming months, given the varied terrain and locations you're thinking of running, I'd honestly suggest either the Granite or Senton. Yes, each model in the 3s line has its quirks, but all of the 3s parts are interchangeable, so if you're bored with one, a couple part swaps and BOOM you've got another model. Tires not big enough on your Big Rock? Chuck on some from the Granite! Granite or Vorteks too narrow? Bolt on some arms from the Typhon/Big Rock!

 

[BrushlessHead]

Thanks for your replies! I’ll have to pay more attention to the truck options (Granite, Big Rock, Senton) when I stop into the shop, I had been mainly focused on the Typhon and Vorteks.

But I do see the collection eventually expanding beyond just one, and appreciate the info about the interchangeable parts. I look forward to getting to know a particular model and figuring out which customizations would make it better for my uses.

Can I ask, are there any specific components in any of the cars out of the box that would sway you either way? Like a specific servo being preferred? One having a metal gear/component that the others don’t, making it perhaps more reliable?

I’m not against tinkering and fiddling with parts, that actually appeals to me. But more trying to avoid any issues right out of the box.

Thanks again and I really appreciate your opinions on this.

 

[Velodromed]

Thanks for your replies! I’ll have to pay more attention to the truck options (Granite, Big Rock, Senton) when I stop into the shop, I had been mainly focused on the Typhon and Vorteks.

But I do see the collection eventually expanding beyond just one, and appreciate the info about the interchangeable parts. I look forward to getting to know a particular model and figuring out which customizations would make it better for my uses.

Can I ask, are there any specific components in any of the cars out of the box that would sway you either way? Like a specific servo being preferred? One having a metal gear/component that the others don’t, making it perhaps more reliable?

I’m not against tinkering and fiddling with parts, that actually appeals to me. But more trying to avoid any issues right out of the box.

Thanks again and I really appreciate your opinions on this.

The typhon comes with17 mm hex and the axle is extremely strong, much more so than the regular 3S ones. But it may lack a little bit if you’re going to be driving in extremely rocky and rough terrain. The big rock is basically a typhoon without the 17 mm hex hubs and wing. The wheels give it a bit more clearance also.

I did not like the stock big rock wheels. They work, but I preferred the granite stock tires, which fit on the big rock without modification. The typhon comes with buggy wheels/tires. Skinnier and a little smaller, I believe, than monster truck tires. When I had a typhoon I put proline mx28s on it and it totally ripped. I did not like the stock buggy tires at all and still have them, practically brand new with just one run on them lol. But you can’t lose with either car really.

The Vorteks has a much lower profile. It is basically a speed basher. Does not have a lot of clearance for rough terrain and the front shocks are quite short. It is a short wheelbase car with short arms also, which will make it quicker reacting to control input. Both the big rock anti-have a long arms, giving them a wider footprint and more stable feel. But if you want fast it’s a great car for that. The tires are good for street and smooth dirt fields. They wear fairly quickly on the street though I believe.

 

[Hector_Fisher]

I think you could easily talk yourself into a 6s truck (or someone else could). But if this is your first RC, the 3s trucks are a good start. As for which of the 3s models to choose, that's widely up to personal preference. The Big Rock is pretty good all arounder. The granite is more of a stunt truck because of the short wheel base. The typhon is more of a zipper for dirt lots or street, but will struggle more in grass. Never driven one, but I think the vorteks is kind of in between the typhon and big rock for capability.

Either one you choose, you'll like have loads of fun! Welcome to the forum!

 

[Smilinbri]

Welcome aboard!!

Great advice given above from some of the experts.

It's a tough decision and varies for everyone. I also work from home FT. I was lucky enough this past summer to have some disposable funds (which is now gone-majority of it to RC) and couldn't decide what to get.

In 2020, I bought a bunch of "Amazon" Bezgar rigs for the fam, buolt my dirt track and fell back in love with RCs!!

I got seriously into the hobby March of '22. (At the time of getting the disposable funds. Coincidence?? )

Within 6 months I had purchased 7 Arrmas, 2 Traxxas, 2 Redcats, a Tekno SCT410.3 kit and an Axial RBX10 Ryft kit. And that doesn't include all the batteries, tools, upgrades, accessories, costs to build my backyard dirt track, etc.

My point......Have a budget. Watch your spending. It can get out of hand if you let it. Luckily I knew to stop (well, slow down ) when the funds ran dry.

When you do decide on a new Arrma, highly suggest right away or after a couple packs, replacing bearings with Fast Eddys, Jims, or another top quality brand. Get a better servo as most of the OTB ones are junk. Def check the diff fluids and fill them properly as they are always low or empty OTB.

Straight OTB always make sure all screws are tight. QC on these is not always up to par.

Good luck and Happy Bashing!!!

 

[BrushlessHead]

I can’t thank you all enough for sharing your thoughts and experiences. I leaning towards getting a 3S all-rounder type as the way to go for a first car. If I fall in love with a particular type of driving, maybe that’ll steer me into something more specialized to that type of driving or surface.

Still not sure…hopefully I’ll be swayed in one direction at the hobby shop, armed with this new info from you all. I was just playing around with my daughter’s 1:18 brushless truck on a wet driveway and having a blast, even with that little thing!

 

[BrushlessHead]

So I’ve got a little bit of an update. I went to the hobby shop with my oldest last night to poke around and ask some more questions. I think I’ve finally wrapped my head around the features and pros/cons of my many options, but still didn’t feel confident enough to spend about $500 all in (as I’d need a charger and battery packs). I also spotted both the 4S and 6S Kraton and was really interested in those. I felt more drawn to either of those trucks than the options in the 3S line for whatever reason.

So while I decide what to do, I ended up picking up a Vorteks Boost for my kid! Only had about 10 mins to rip it around the wet dormant grass this AM, but it’s actually a nice size and speed for my pre-teen to use on the yard. I think messing around with the Vorteks Boost and getting some experience with the car will help me make a decision when I’m ready to fully jump in. I like its compatibility with the 3S line and ability to be customized over time. For now, it’s perfect for the kids while I look into the Kraton models a little more!

 

[Velodromed]

So I’ve got a little bit of an update. I went to the hobby shop with my oldest last night to poke around and ask some more questions. I think I’ve finally wrapped my head around the features and pros/cons of my many options, but still didn’t feel confident enough to spend about $500 all in (as I’d need a charger and battery packs). I also spotted both the 4S and 6S Kraton and was really interested in those. I felt more drawn to either of those trucks than the options in the 3S line for whatever reason.

So while I decide what to do, I ended up picking up a Vorteks Boost for my kid! Only had about 10 mins to rip it around the wet dormant grass this AM, but it’s actually a nice size and speed for my pre-teen to use on the yard. I think messing around with the Vorteks Boost and getting some experience with the car will help me make a decision when I’m ready to fully jump in. I like its compatibility with the 3S line and ability to be customized over time. For now, it’s perfect for the kids while I look into the Kraton models a little more!

There’s nothing like sharing your hobby with your kid! Very nice

 

[bukshypro]

Hey and welcome. Based on my experience and my wallets opinion I would skip the 3S and straight go for 4S kraton or outcast. You can still run it on 3S but the price difference here in the UK is only about £30-50 and you get way more for your money, such as bigger motor/esc, metal diffs, better driveshafts, bigger tyres (with a car capable using).

I got a Vorteks and a big hole in my wallet. I don't mind, don't get me wrong, but with what I know that I didnt 2 months ago, I would straight go for either Kraton or Outcast

Btw none of the rc cars is great in tall grass, they re not for that

 

[Velodromed]

Hey and welcome. Based on my experience and my wallets opinion I would skip the 3S and straight go for 4S kraton ot outcast.

Yes, the new 4s line is what the 3s line should be lol. Worth’s the extra 60 bucks or whatever it is.

 

[bukshypro]

Within 6 months I had purchased 7 Arrmas, 2 Traxxas, 2 Redcats, a Tekno SCT410.3 kit and an Axial RBX10 Ryft kit. And that doesn't include all the batteries, tools, upgrades, accessories, costs to build my backyard dirt track, etc.

When I grow up, I want to be like you

So I’ve got a little bit of an update. I went to the hobby shop with my oldest last night to poke around and ask some more questions. I think I’ve finally wrapped my head around the features and pros/cons of my many options, but still didn’t feel confident enough to spend about $500 all in (as I’d need a charger and battery packs). I also spotted both the 4S and 6S Kraton and was really interested in those. I felt more drawn to either of those trucks than the options in the 3S line for whatever reason.

So while I decide what to do, I ended up picking up a Vorteks Boost for my kid! Only had about 10 mins to rip it around the wet dormant grass this AM, but it’s actually a nice size and speed for my pre-teen to use on the yard. I think messing around with the Vorteks Boost and getting some experience with the car will help me make a decision when I’m ready to fully jump in. I like its compatibility with the 3S line and ability to be customized over time. For now, it’s perfect for the kids while I look into the Kraton models a little more!

The Boost range is currently the best value and good job taking that!! One thing Id like to prepare you for tho: your kid will be happy...until you buy yourself a 3S-4S that can wheelie and backflip haha because then they want that too.

 

[bt224]

I wanted the BR but my daughter talked me into the 3s Typhon, we now have 2 of them. Goes thru grass and dirt without issue and handles better than the BR's we've run around with, however either would be just fine. If I had gone the the BR, I have no doubt I would not be disappointed. We've had some pretty bad crashes and nothing has broken on either car. No experience with the 4s line, but sounds like a reasonable step up as you could always run 3s in it. After some group bashes I know anything 6s or above won't work for us, we like to race them around the (large) backyard more than anywhere else and the 6s would be just too much. And to be honest, other than very long runs, the 8s guys never looked like they were having much fun trying to control those beasts. But again, your circumstances may be different.

 

[BrushlessHead]

I wanted the BR but my daughter talked me into the 3s Typhon, we now have 2 of them. Goes thru grass and dirt without issue and handles better than the BR's we've run around with, however either would be just fine. If I had gone the the BR, I have no doubt I would not be disappointed. We've had some pretty bad crashes and nothing has broken on either car. No experience with the 4s line, but sounds like a reasonable step up as you could always run 3s in it. After some group bashes I know anything 6s or above won't work for us, we like to race them around the (large) backyard more than anywhere else and the 6s would be just too much. And to be honest, other than very long runs, the 8s guys never looked like they were having much fun trying to control those beasts. But again, your circumstances may be different.

This makes a lot of sense and thanks for sharing your experience with the 3S Typhon. With the Vorteks Boost in the fold as a fun truck for the kids and a platform for learning about the hobby with my oldest, I think I'm down to the Kraton 4S and the Typhon 3S. Kind of different ends of the spectrum, I know, but I'm happy to hear that you have no complaints with the Typhon in grass!

When I grow up, I want to be like you

The Boost range is currently the best value and good job taking that!! One thing Id like to prepare you for tho: your kid will be happy...until you buy yourself a 3S-4S that can wheelie and backflip haha because then they want that too.

I totally get this, no doubt. My younger two kids are already envious of the Boost that my oldest now has.

Yes, the new 4s line is what the 3s line should be lol. Worth’s the extra 60 bucks or whatever it is.

That's great info, thanks. I'm really drawn to the Kraton 4S - for my purposes, it feel like it strikes a perfect balance.

 

[BrushlessHead]

I had the opportunity to pick up a Typhon 3S at a nice discount and have run a couple 3S packs through it. Holy cow this thing rips! It is a speed demon on road and absolute hauls through our winter lawn. I absolutely love it and couldn’t be happier - no immediate plans to change or mod anything, but we all know how things change!

As for the Vortek Boost, that guy is on the middle of a metamorphosis! While I enjoyed sliding and spinning around in RWD, my son was having trouble controlling it. Keep in mind he is using 2S LiPi vs the stock battery. This led to hitting a pole just right and exploding a front shock, snapping the shaft. So I got the experience of disassembling and rebuilding that piece, which was cool.

So we’ve since installed the 4x4 kit and he’s much happier with the handling. That did seemingly affect the speed and steering precision, though. So…

In addition to running 2S and 4x4, I swapped out the servo to the S651. Steering was a good bit more responsive after that change. I’ve also ordered a slew of parts from Jenny’sRC to go for the full 3S conversion. Motor, motor Mount, slipper/spur, motor mount, ESC, transmitter/receiver, and pinion all from the 3S line. The total damage wasn’t too bad, but I don’t mind the cost vs just going with the Vorteks 3S in the first place. As we’re new to the hobby, this is the best way to dive in and really understand what’s going on with these sweet little machines!

Wish us luck with the conversion process…

 

[Velodromed]

I swapped out the servo to the S651.

When the s651 goes out try the 6s line s652. Drops right in and is plenty good enough for the 3s line. I have 5 altogether in 3/4s cars and all are running strong these last 18 months.

Best do a full tear down and rebuild on that used typhon. Catch any issues before they happen. Sounds like you and your son are having fun and that’s the best part of it!

 

[BrushlessHead]

Thanks for the tips. I thought about just jumping to the S652 but wasn’t sure about compatibility, so saved a few bucks with the S651. Hopefully it lasts a while.

As for the Typhon tear down, I definitely appreciate the importance of getting in there and checking everything out. I’m decent with DIY projects and do lawn tractor repairs, bicycle maintenance and repairs, and minor car maintenance. BUT I do have one issue…when things are snug and tight enough, I can’t stop myself from giving it one extra turn too many. Ran into many self-imposed problems this way. It’s like an over-torquing obsession!

 

[Velodromed]

BUT I do have one issue…when things are snug and tight enough, I can’t stop myself from giving it one extra turn too many

Yeah you’ll stop doing that quick lol. Stripping some of the plastic parts will teach you. Got to have a soft hand you know. Even more so when adjusting a slipper. Just a touch too tight and you’ll strip or pop the hub, which ruins it.

A good way to learn is only use your thumb and index finger to tighten (use your middle finger to stabilize) until you get a feel for it. And if you use an electric driver never tighten down all the way, that’s what the hand drivers are for.

 

[BrushlessHead]

Well the Vorteks Boost brushless conversion went off without an issue today! Only took an hour or two with my oldest when he got home from school. I’m going to go back in tomorrow to Loctite a couple pieces now that I know everything is working properly. I also need to pick up a screw for the ESC power button since it is integrated as part of the Boost ESC, so didn’t have one to reuse.

Everything came in from JennysRC in perfect condition. I was pretty surprised everything fired up and functioned perfectly on our first try. The toughest part of the job was probably neatly bundling and tucking wire slack into the receiver compartment. I was able to yoink the receiver antenna tube from the Boost ESC and reuse it on the new setup. I went with the Spektrum SLT3 transmitter and receiver over the DX3 because it was only like $23.

A couple things I need to pick up, in addition to that one pesky screw, are the drive shaft support and the wheelie bar! We flipped the new and improved Vorteks several times during quick starts! The truck absolutely screams and I can’t wait to get it out in the open with the Typhon.