How well can a Jato race?

[rcdriftdude]

Hey guys, I am really interested in getting a new nitro, And of course I want to go with traxxas and really thought about getting a Jato. I was just wondering how well the Jato's capabilities are to race. I know its more built around a basher, but Ive looked at the albums and have seen some nice racing setups. Also what else would be good to make it a real nice race truck. Thanks alot guys

[RODNEYC864]

only if you control the throtle right or its to fast.

[rcdriftdude]

and i was also looking at a 2.5 just because ive heard the 3.3 is just way too much for the track

[Unsullied_Spy]

and i was also looking at a 2.5 just because ive heard the 3.3 is just way too much for the track

The 2.5 was sadly discontinued, but they're still available in the marketplace or eBay or something. Either that or get a new 3.3 and put a different engine and tires on it.

[rustyrevo2]

i would get a good .12 motor and race with that since the jato is really light it will still get some speed and have more raceability.

[jonski]

I have been racing and involved in r/c cars/truck/buggies since 1991. I have seen many people race with vehicles that I would never consider buying. Now that I have aged, I have to say that anything is raceable. I actually like being the odd man out. Anyone can buy an AE or Losi and go to the track and copy a set-up. Learn the truck and tune it, you will become a better racer that way. I always try to learn what different adjustments make on the track and my note in a notebook. Keep trying different adjustments everyweek. I am expecting my 3.3 this week and hope to get to the track this summer.

[Unsullied_Spy]

The .12 is a good idea, then it would be ROAR legal. Try an O.S. .12TZ Turbo, they're a bit pricey but a good engine.

[R_man_5K]

It is all in your set up and throttle control. You will need to change a few things if you are running in ROAR type races or in RC Pro. You need to get the single speed, 2.2 rims and tires (would need new tires anyway...) and a .12 motor.
The jato can be made competitive. But as with most ST racing it all comes down to the driver.

[BNSFMike]

I've done the single speed mod, 2.2 tires, and put a 2.5r engine inplace of the 3.3 (among other mods). All of which I still had problems with it being stable. My last mod was top plate chopping and throwing down the pull starter instead of EZ Start (did these both at once) and now its become very drivable. I wouldn't suggest choppin up your top plate unless you know what your getting yourself into. I copied the same design Slayden did to his (LINK). Mine came out pretty clean and I'm very happy with it. R_Man_5k, OneBigMan and Auss-Max made their own custom plates, shown HERE, of which all came out lookin real awesome. Personally, I'm jealous! Wish mine was that nice!

I think the stock top plate is really holding the Jato back from how competitive it can be on the track vs Losi or Associated trucks.

Hope this helps
Mike

[R_man_5K]

yes... modding the top plate makes a HUGE difference!