If you’ve been running your WPL on trails, outdoors, or rough terrain, this is one upgrade that often gets overlooked, the steering servo.
Most WPL models come with a plastic gear servo as standard. It works fine for light use, but over time (or under stress), plastic gears can wear out or fail, sometimes at the worst possible moment.
What Usually Goes Wrong with Plastic Gear Servos?
Plastic gears are more prone to:
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Gear stripping after repeated use
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Failure when external force is applied (for example, turning the front wheels by hand)
Many of us have experienced this firsthand, everything is going great, then suddenly steering stops responding during a trail run and a grinding sound is heard.
Why Metal Gear Servos Are a Better Choice
A metal gear servo replaces the internal plastic gears with hardened metal gears, giving you:
1. Much Higher Durability
Metal gears can handle:
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Rough terrain
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Heavier wheels
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Steering load from upgrades (metal axles, wheel weights, bigger tires)
This dramatically reduces the chance of sudden failure.
2. Better Reliability Outdoors
When you’re crawling outdoors, you don’t want a broken servo ending the day early.
Metal gear servos are far more resistant to impact and stress, making them ideal for trail runs and off-road use.
3. Improved Steering Feel
Metal gears maintain their shape and strength over time, which means:
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More consistent steering response
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Less slop developing after long-term use
Your steering stays precise for much longer.
Which Metal Gear Servo Should You Choose?
At WPL, we offer 17g and 25g metal gear servo options, depending on your model and setup.
👉 Always check the product description to confirm compatibility with your specific WPL model before purchasing.
A Small Upgrade That Makes a Big Difference
Upgrading your steering servo may not be the most exciting modificatio, but it’s one of the most practical.
If you enjoy outdoor crawling, trail driving, or long-term reliability, a metal gear servo is a smart investment that helps you avoid disappointment when it matters most.
Happy crawling,
WPL RC Official Store