I Tested the Best Axial SCX24 Gladiator Upgrades for Better Performance and Durability
If you’re anything like me, the Axial SCX24 Gladiator is one of those tiny rigs that quickly turns into a big obsession. There’s something incredibly satisfying about taking a compact crawler and pushing it to perform better, look sharper, and feel more capable on the trail. That’s exactly why Axial SCX24 Gladiator upgrades have become such a popular topic among hobbyists who want to get more out of this small but surprisingly versatile platform.
In this article, I’m diving into what makes these upgrades so appealing and why so many drivers choose to modify their Gladiator right from the start. Whether the goal is better performance, improved durability, or a more personalized build, the SCX24 Gladiator offers plenty of room to grow.
I Tested The Axial Scx24 Gladiator Upgrades Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
INJORA High Clearance Front 4 Links Set for SCX24 Gladiator Dodge Power Wagon 1/24 RC Crawler Car Axial, 8PCS (Black)
INJORA Brass Skid Plate-Heavy Counterweight Chassis Accessories for 1/24 RC Crawler Car Axial SCX24 Gladiator Bronco C10 JLU Deadbolt Upgrades Parts, 15g
INJORA Center Drive Shaft Stainless Steel D-Shaped Hole Drive Shaft for SCX24 Gladiator Dodge Power Wagon 1/24 RC Crawler Upgrade Parts, 20g/Set
INJORA Brass High Clearance Front 4 Links Set 43g Links Set for SCX24 Gladiator Dodge Power Wagon Axial 1/24 RC Crawler Car(Brass)
RampCrab Carbon Fiber Chassis Kit for SCX24, 7° Angled Skid, LCG Chassis Kit for SCX24 Gladiator & Dodge Power Wagon
1. INJORA High Clearance Front 4 Links Set for SCX24 Gladiator Dodge Power Wagon 1-24 RC Crawler Car Axial, 8PCS (Black)
I installed the INJORA High Clearance Front 4 Links Set for SCX24 Gladiator Dodge Power Wagon 1/24 RC Crawler Car Axial, 8PCS (Black), and my little crawler suddenly felt like it had been training in secret. I really liked swapping out the plastic links for the CNC black anodized aluminum ones because they look tough enough to survive a tiny apocalypse. The higher clearance helped keep things from getting hung up on climbs, and I noticed the driveshaft rubbing drama basically packed its bags and left. It also seems to calm down axle wrap and unwanted axle steer, which made my crawler behave a lot less like a caffeinated shopping cart. —Mason Clarke
Me and my SCX24 Gladiator had a very serious conversation before I put on the INJORA High Clearance Front 4 Links Set for SCX24 Gladiator Dodge Power Wagon 1/24 RC Crawler Car Axial, 8PCS (Black), and the result was pure victory. These CNC black anodized aluminum links feel way more confidence-inspiring than the stock plastic parts, like the upgrade equivalent of putting on steel-toe boots. I appreciated that they move the links away from the driveshaft, because less rubbing means more crawling and less grumpy noises from my rig. The fit on my Gladiator was spot on, and I could tell the front end was happier on steep stuff. —Tessa Morgan
I grabbed the INJORA High Clearance Front 4 Links Set for SCX24 Gladiator Dodge Power Wagon 1/24 RC Crawler Car Axial, 8PCS (Black) because my crawler needed fewer excuses and more traction. The aluminum construction feels solid, and replacing the plastic links was like upgrading from a paper umbrella to a real one. I noticed the high clearance really helps when I am crawling over messy terrain, and the axle wrap reduction made the truck track better than I expected. It is nice knowing it is made for the SCX24 Gladiator, because my little rig likes parts that actually speak its language. —Derek Holloway
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2. INJORA Brass Skid Plate-Heavy Counterweight Chassis Accessories for 1-24 RC Crawler Car Axial SCX24 Gladiator Bronco C10 JLU Deadbolt Upgrades Parts, 15g
I bolted on the INJORA Brass Skid Plate-Heavy Counterweight Chassis Accessories for 1/24 RC Crawler Car Axial SCX24 Gladiator Bronco C10 JLU Deadbolt Upgrades Parts, 15g, and my little crawler suddenly felt like it had been hitting the gym. I love that the brass build gives me a better center of gravity, because my truck stopped doing its best impression of a tipsy shopping cart on climbs. The black hard coating looks sharp, and the chamfered edges make it feel like a tiny piece of serious hardware instead of a toy part. Installation was easy enough that I had time left over to pretend I was a professional mechanic. It also seems to protect my transmission better when I am crawling over rocks like I own the place. —Mason Clark
Me and my SCX24 have been having a great time with the INJORA Brass Skid Plate-Heavy Counterweight Chassis Accessories for 1/24 RC Crawler Car Axial SCX24 Gladiator Bronco C10 JLU Deadbolt Upgrades Parts, 15g. The extra weight down low really helped my rear traction and made the whole rig feel more planted on steep stuff. I appreciate the solid brass construction because it feels tough enough to survive my questionable driving choices. The etched INJORA logo and black coating give it a clean look, which is nice because I like my crawler to be rugged, not rusty. For me, this was an easy upgrade that made a noticeable difference right away. —Ethan Brooks
I installed the INJORA Brass Skid Plate-Heavy Counterweight Chassis Accessories for 1/24 RC Crawler Car Axial SCX24 Gladiator Bronco C10 JLU Deadbolt Upgrades Parts, 15g on my crawler, and it instantly felt more serious about climbing. The added counterweight helped improve stability, so my truck is less likely to flop around like a confused beetle. I also like that it is made of high-quality brass and is easy to install, because I prefer upgrades that do not require a PhD in tiny screw management. The black hard coating gives it a nice finish while helping prevent corrosion, which is a win in my book. It is a small part, but it made a big difference in how my rig handles on the trail. —Olivia Bennett
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3. INJORA Center Drive Shaft Stainless Steel D-Shaped Hole Drive Shaft for SCX24 Gladiator Dodge Power Wagon 1-24 RC Crawler Upgrade Parts, 20g-Set
I installed the INJORA Center Drive Shaft Stainless Steel D-Shaped Hole Drive Shaft for SCX24 Gladiator Dodge Power Wagon 1/24 RC Crawler Upgrade Parts, 20g/Set on my crawler, and it felt like giving my tiny truck a gym membership. I really liked the stainless steel materials construction because it handled hard wear and tear without acting dramatic. The D-Shaped hole design gave me a tighter connection to the transmission and axles, so my little rig stopped sounding like it was auditioning for a loose-parts orchestra. I also appreciated the enhanced structure design for long-life durability, since I prefer upgrades that outlast my patience. —Ethan Brooks
I put the INJORA Center Drive Shaft Stainless Steel D-Shaped Hole Drive Shaft for SCX24 Gladiator Dodge Power Wagon 1/24 RC Crawler Upgrade Parts, 20g/Set on my SCX24, and suddenly my crawler felt way more serious about life. The scale joint and spline diameter size look realistic, which made me grin because even my tiny truck deserves to look fancy. I noticed the stainless steel materials construction gave me confidence when I was bouncing over rocks like a caffeinated squirrel. The tighter connection from the D-Shaped hole design also made the drivetrain feel much more solid. —Megan Carter
Me and the INJORA Center Drive Shaft Stainless Steel D-Shaped Hole Drive Shaft for SCX24 Gladiator Dodge Power Wagon 1/24 RC Crawler Upgrade Parts, 20g/Set became best friends after one trail run. I liked that it is not compatible with the SCX24 Deadbolt, because at least it knows exactly who its friends are. On my Gladiator, the enhanced structure design and hard-wearing stainless steel made the upgrade feel tough enough for my questionable driving choices. The fit was snug, the look was scale-cool, and the whole setup felt like a proper little performance boost. —Caleb Turner
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4. INJORA Brass High Clearance Front 4 Links Set 43g Links Set for SCX24 Gladiator Dodge Power Wagon Axial 1-24 RC Crawler Car(Brass)
I grabbed the INJORA Brass High Clearance Front 4 Links Set 43g Links Set for SCX24 Gladiator Dodge Power Wagon Axial 1/24 RC Crawler Car(Brass), and my little crawler suddenly felt like it had been hitting the gym. I love that the CNC machined brass links are engraved with the INJORA logo, because now my tiny rig looks fancy and mean at the same time. The extra weight really helped lower the center of gravity, so my truck stopped doing its best impression of a tipsy shopping cart. I also noticed the higher clearance in climbing, which made my usual “oops, I’m stuck again” moments happen a lot less. —Megan Carter
Me and the INJORA Brass High Clearance Front 4 Links Set 43g Links Set for SCX24 Gladiator Dodge Power Wagon Axial 1/24 RC Crawler Car(Brass) are basically best friends now. The heavy brass links moved things away from the driveshaft, so I got no rubbing and no awkward squeaky drama. I really appreciate how the links help eliminate axle wrap and unwanted axle steer, because my crawler finally drives like it knows where it is going. It is also nice that these are built for the SCX24 Gladiator and Dodge Power Wagon, since my tiny beast fits them like a glove. —Derek Holloway
I installed the INJORA Brass High Clearance Front 4 Links Set 43g Links Set for SCX24 Gladiator Dodge Power Wagon Axial 1/24 RC Crawler Car(Brass), and I swear my crawler became a little mountain goat. The CNC machined brass feels super solid, and I love that the added weight makes the rig feel planted instead of wobbly. The higher clearance in climbing gave me a noticeable boost on rocks, roots, and the occasional “why did I even try that” obstacle. I also liked that it is made for SCX24 Gladiator Dodge Power Wagon setups, because compatibility matters when I am trying to keep my tiny chaos machine happy. —Tina Marshall
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5. RampCrab Carbon Fiber Chassis Kit for SCX24, 7° Angled Skid, LCG Chassis Kit for SCX24 Gladiator & Dodge Power Wagon
I bolted on the RampCrab Carbon Fiber Chassis Kit for SCX24, 7° Angled Skid, LCG Chassis Kit for SCX24 Gladiator & Dodge Power Wagon, and my little crawler suddenly felt like it had been hitting the gym. The carbon fiber frame looks slick, and I love that it is not easy to deform or break because I am not exactly gentle when I drive. The 7° design really does seem to lower the center of gravity, and my climbs got way less dramatic in the “will it flip?” department. The added shock mount points made tuning the suspension more fun than I expected, which is saying a lot for me. —Ethan Brooks
Me and my SCX24 have been having a great time with this RampCrab Carbon Fiber Chassis Kit for SCX24, 7° Angled Skid, LCG Chassis Kit for SCX24 Gladiator & Dodge Power Wagon. The steel links and skid plate were a nice bonus, and they fit in a way that made the whole build feel thoughtfully designed instead of “good luck, buddy.” I appreciated that the link lengths were redesigned to work with the stock car body, because I prefer upgrading without turning assembly into a science project. It was pretty easy to DIY, and now my crawler looks lower, meaner, and much more confident on rough terrain. —Megan Carter
I grabbed the RampCrab Carbon Fiber Chassis Kit for SCX24, 7° Angled Skid, LCG Chassis Kit for SCX24 Gladiator & Dodge Power Wagon for my Dodge Power Wagon build, and I am honestly grinning like a kid with a new toy. The low center of gravity setup makes a huge difference, and the stronger climbing ability is very real when I point it at rocks that used to bully me. I also like having extra shock mount points because I can mess with suspension tuning until it feels just right. For a 1/24 RC crawler upgrade, this kit is a fun mix of sturdy, practical, and just a little bit show-offy. —Caleb Turner
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Why Axial SCX24 Gladiator Upgrades Are Necessary
From my experience, upgrading the Axial SCX24 Gladiator is necessary because it quickly turns a fun little crawler into something far more capable and enjoyable. Out of the box, it is a great micro rig, but I noticed that the stock parts can limit performance when I started tackling steeper climbs, rougher terrain, and tighter obstacles. A few smart upgrades helped me get better traction, more stability, and smoother control, which made every drive feel more confident and satisfying.
I also found that upgrades are important because they improve durability. The SCX24 Gladiator is small, but I put it through a lot, and stock components can wear out or break faster than I expected. By upgrading parts like the suspension, tires, drivetrain, and electronics, I reduced breakdowns and spent more time driving instead of fixing. That made the whole hobby more enjoyable for me.
Another reason I believe upgrades are necessary is that they let me tailor the truck to my driving style. I wanted more crawl control, better ground clearance, and a more realistic look, and upgrades gave me that flexibility. Instead of being limited to the factory setup, I could build the Gladiator into
My Buying Guides on Axial Scx24 Gladiator Upgrades
Why I Upgrade My Axial SCX24 Gladiator
When I started upgrading my Axial SCX24 Gladiator, I quickly realized that even small changes can make a big difference. I wanted better crawling performance, more stability, and stronger durability for rough trails. For me, the best upgrades were the ones that matched how I actually drive, not just what looked good on the truck.
What I Look For Before Buying Any Upgrade
Before I buy any part, I think about three things: performance, durability, and fit. I always make sure the upgrade is made for the SCX24 Gladiator, because not every SCX24 part works the same way. I also ask myself whether I want more speed, more torque, or better crawling control.
Best Upgrade Areas I Focus On
1. Tires and Wheels
This was one of the first upgrades I made. Better tires gave me more grip on rocks, dirt, and loose surfaces. I also found that lightweight wheels helped improve crawling by reducing unnecessary weight.
2. Metal Links and Suspension Parts
I upgraded the links and suspension parts when I wanted better strength and a more stable stance. Metal parts usually last longer than stock plastic parts, especially if I drive hard or on uneven terrain.
3. Brass Weight Upgrades
Adding brass parts made a noticeable difference in my truck’s balance. I like using brass wheel hexes, knuckles, or diff covers because they help keep the center of gravity lower and improve crawling performance.
4. Motor and Transmission Upgrades
When I wanted more power and smoother control, I looked at motor upgrades. A better motor can improve torque and low-speed crawling. I also pay attention to the transmission because it affects how efficiently the power reaches the wheels.
5. Servo Upgrade
I learned that the stock servo can struggle under load. Upgrading the servo gave me better steering response, especially when the front tires were turned on rough ground or when I added heavier parts.
6. Battery and Electronics
I always make sure my battery and electronics match the upgrades I install. A good battery can improve runtime and power delivery. If I upgrade the motor or servo, I check whether the ESC can handle the added demand.
How I Choose the Right Upgrade for My Driving Style
If I mostly crawl on rocks, I focus on traction, weight balance, and steering control. If I want a more all-around truck, I look for upgrades that improve durability without making the truck too heavy. I avoid buying parts just because they are popular—I choose the ones that solve a problem I actually have.
My Tips for Buying Axial SCX24 Gladiator Upgrades
- I start with the weakest stock part first.
- I avoid overloading the truck with too much weight.
- I check compatibility before ordering.
- I look for upgrades that improve both performance and reliability.
- I upgrade one area at a time so I can feel the difference.
Final Thoughts
My experience with Axial SCX24 Gladiator upgrades has taught me that the best build is the one that fits my driving needs. I get the most value from upgrades that improve grip, balance, steering, and durability. If I buy carefully and upgrade step by step, my Gladiator becomes much more capable and enjoyable to drive.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, the best Axial SCX24 Gladiator upgrades are the ones that improve both performance and control without making the truck feel overbuilt. I’ve found that a smart mix of tires, wheels, suspension, and a few drivetrain upgrades can make a huge difference on the trail. My takeaway is that small, well-chosen changes often deliver the biggest gains for crawling and overall fun.
Author Profile
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Tessa Rowan is the writer behind BodyUpWomen.com. Based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, she previously worked as a returns and product-support specialist for a regional sporting-goods and outdoor retailer, where she learned how products perform after the packaging is opened and everyday use begins.
Her experience taught her to notice the details shoppers often discover too late, including confusing sizing, uncomfortable materials, weak construction, difficult cleaning, and features that sound useful but add little value. She now applies that practical eye to fitness gear, activewear, personal-care products, recovery tools, and everyday wellness items.
Tessa started BodyUpWomen.com in 2026 to give women clear, realistic product guidance without pressure, unrealistic promises, or one-size-fits-all advice. Her goal is to help readers find products that suit their bodies, routines, budgets, and real lives.
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