T-Work’s: steel arm mounts to add ballast to the Hong Nor X5B and IX5B

Photo: T-Work's (source)

Steel arm mounts from T-Work’s for the Hong Nor X5B and IX5B

T-Work’s continues to expand its catalogue around the Hong Nor 1/8 nitro buggies with two parts that play on rarely exploited ground: mass. The TO-353-H-S (A mount) and TO-353-K-S (D mount) arm mounts follow the geometry of the stock X5B and IX5B parts, but are machined from steel instead of aluminium.

Ballast disguised as a suspension part

The TO-353-H-S A mount weighs in at 20.4 g and replaces the stock X5-05 part. The TO-353-K-S D mount goes up to 43 g, nearly triple the aluminium part it replaces (stock reference X5-07). The idea is clear: instead of sticking lead weights on the chassis, the driver moves weight directly where it is structurally useful, front or rear depending on which part is fitted. That makes it possible to adjust the buggy’s front-to-rear balance according to track grip or driving style, with no packaging compromise.

Strength and direct fit

Beyond the ballast, steel brings far better resistance to deformation and wear than aluminium on parts that take most of the suspension loads. Both mounts fit in place of the originals, with no modification or trimming. T-Work’s also keeps the black-anodised 7075-T6 aluminium versions (TO-353-H and TO-353-K) in the catalogue for those looking to save weight instead.

Prices and availability

The steel A mount is listed at $23.99 and the D mount at $27.99 on the official store. In Europe, T-Work’s options are distributed by dealers including Wartelle Shop, RC Team and Aigoin Racing.